FOOTBALL fans will need a ‘vaccine passport’ to attend matches from next week.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the new rule alongside other ‘Plan B’ restrictions at a Downing Street press conference this evening.

The measures have been brought in to slow the spread of the Omicron variant of coronavirus.

It means supporters will need to show the NHS Covid pass or a negative lateral flow test to gain entry into certain stadiums.

This applies to outdoor unseated venues of more than 4,000 capacity, or any ground that exceeds 10,000.

The rule will not come into force in time for Oxford United’s Sky Bet League One game at MK Dons on Saturday.

After that, the U’s next match is at home to Wigan Athletic on December 18.

United supporters have been able to watch games without restrictions all season, after most of the 2020/21 campaign took place behind closed doors.

The U’s played just five matches in front of crowds, all with reduced capacity.

More details on the exact requirements of a ‘vaccine passport’ are expected to be confirmed in the coming days.

Other ‘Plan B’ restrictions include guidance to work from home, starting on Monday, and wearing face masks in most indoor places.

Nightclubs and other venues where large crowds gather will also require a ‘vaccine passport’.