Alan Shearer: “Sport is nothing without fans”

Coral ambassador discusses the return of fans to sport

As sports fans return to stadiums and racecourses in parts of the UK today, Coral ambassador Alan Shearer has welcomed their return in his latest video blog.

Shearer believes this year has been a reminder of how important fans are to sport and how they should never be taken for granted again.

He said: “It is hugely important to have fans back in stadiums, albeit in small numbers. One thing we have realised over the last few months, whether it is football, rugby, cricket or horse racing, it is not the same without fans.

“The novelty of starting sport again after the first lockdown has worn away. It is far more difficult now seeing stadiums without any fans in them. It feels really flat.

“Some players have probably enjoyed not having a crowd there as it has taken the pressure off them. They may have even tried things they wouldn’t normally do with the fear of being criticised by the fans. But then, on the other hand, some players and teams have struggled as they thrive off the crowd.

“Over the past few years fans have probably been taken for granted. This has been a reminder that sport is nothing without them. I hope they get treated with more respect going forward. Tickets should be far more accessible and cheaper.”

SHEARER’S NOVEMBER PLAYERS OF THE MONTH

“James Ward-Prowse is one of the players who has impressed me in November. Only David Beckham has scored more direct free kicks in the Premier League than the Southampton player which says a lot about his ability in dead-ball situations.

“Jack Grealish had a fantastic month. He has established himself with England and is counting to impress in an Aston Villa shirt.