Plans are being drawn up that will require football fans to prove they have had two doses of Covid vaccination before they can attend matches from the end of September.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced last night that everyone who wants to go to a nightclub in the autumn will have to be fully vaccinated.
And he indicated that 'other venues where large crowds gather' could also be made to adopt the checks.
Sportsmail understands that would include football matches and other sports events.
If the measure is introduced, Government would be expected to fall back on the previous definition of 'large crowds', set out in step three of the roadmap out of lockdown, which was a capacity of 16,000 spectators.
However, the legal requirement on football fans to be vaccinated before they attend games – a negative Covid test would not be enough - will only come into force if coronavirus infections rates, deaths and hospitalisations are high or there are dangerous variants circulating.
Full capacity crowds are expected at Premier League and EFL football matches this season
Government has been encouraged by the results of the early phases of the Events Research Programme, which revealed few infections linked to outdoor sports events.
However, results from the latest phase, which included much larger capacities at the Euro 2020 final and semi-finals are yet to be analysed and published.
The the scientists remain cautious about large gatherings in the autumn and winter, when respiratory infections tend to flourish, if high levels of the virus are circulating.
While the risk to a supporter sat in their seat watching the game is considered minimal, there is a risk in travelling to matches by public transport and in congested areas within the stadium, including concourses and toilets.
Both the Premier League and EFL are understood to be seeking clarification on last night's announcement.
The Prime Minister's willingness to enforce the requirement for Covid vaccinations by law, goes some way to meeting the demands of the Premier League.
It has repeatedly called for the use of Covid Passports to maintain large crowds in the autumn and winter, even if the virus surges, as well as asking for a consistent approach.
However, the top flight, the EFL and other sports have said the passports should include proof of vaccination, but also evidence of a negative test of natural immunity from previous infection, in order to give everyone, the chance to attend the game.
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