Premier League 'to break occupancy record' says Richard Scudamore

Richard Scudamore is predicting that the Premier League will set a new attendance milestone during the 2015/16 season.

Speaking at the launch of the new Premier League campaign, Scudamore told Sky Sports News HQ that he believes attendances will improve on the previous record – set only last season.

Scudamore, executive chairman of the organisation, also said he will continue to champion away supporters who face sizeable bills for following their teams around the country.

He said: “The clubs work hard to make certain the grounds are full. Last year we hit another record with 95.9% occupancy.

“Clubs realise ticket prices are an issue which is why there are only three clubs that have increased the price (this season) – and all by small margins.

Clubs realise ticket prices are an issue which is why there are only three clubs that have increased the price.

“One of these, West Ham, has already announced huge reductions for when they move to the Olympic Stadium next season.

“But where we, the Premier League, have a real role to play is co-ordinating things for away fans.

“We’ve started this away fans initiative and during autumn we will look at things for 2016/17 because the away fan is a protected specie.

“They have huge commitment levels, in terms of travel and extra expenses. And everyone knows we need to play in front of full grounds.

“I don’t like predictions but on this occasion I think we’re going to break our all-time attendance levels next season in terms of occupancy.

“Bournemouth, Watford and Norwich are all coming up from the Championship, and we think they will almost always sell out every single game – so the occupancy number will go up.”