Leeds United: Fans gather at Elland Road to celebrate club’s promotion to Premier League

West Brom’s defeat by Huddersfield ensured Leeds returned to the top flight after a sixteen-year wait

Leeds supporters gather outside Elland Road to celebrate the club's return to the Premier League (AFP via Getty Images)

Leeds United supporters gathered outside the club’s stadium to celebrate their team’s promotion to the Premier League on Friday evening.

Fans had been urged by Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani and the police to stay at home in the case of a return to the top flight, but the advice was not heeded.

West Brom lost to Huddersfield 2-1 earlier in the evening to ensure Leeds’ return to the Premier League after 16 years away, and supporters of Marcelo Bielsa’s side rushed to Elland Road to celebrate with one another.

The scenes were reminiscent of those at Anfield in June when Liverpool won the Premier League for the first time in 30 years.

Social distancing guidelines in England dictate that people should maintain a one-metre distance from one another to reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus.

Radrizzani had said it was “vitally important we stay safe and keep those around us safe too by staying at home”, adding in an open letter: “The fight against Covid-19 is not yet over and we must continue to be sensible.”

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said earlier this week: “It’s important to remember that Covid-19 is still with us and large gatherings are still not permitted. We understand that fans will want to celebrate, but ask them to bear in mind their own safety and wellbeing, as well as that of others.

“The safety of fans and the wider public is our primary concern and the safest way that people can celebrate is in their own homes.”