CHELSEA have followed in Manchester United's footsteps by installing rail seating at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues have acted in preparation for Premier League safe standing by upgrading both the Matthew Harding and the Shed ends.

The Blues announced on Monday: "Rail seating has been installed in the Matthew Harding lower and Shed End upper and lower tiers.

"This improvement enhances supporter safety by replacing the current seats in those sections of the stadium.

"We have decided to act now in order to be ready and prepared for any future government decision to introduce safe standing in Premier League stadia."

Pictures emerged in June of the Bridge with large sections of their famous blue seats stripped out.

And they've been completed in time for their Premier League opener at home to Crystal Palace on August 14.

Blues season ticket holders were able to relocate to seating areas only if they wished.

Rail seating provides a waist-high metal frame which interlocks behind each seat which fans will stand behind.

Man Utd started construction of their own rail seating section in June.

SunSport previously reported the Red Devils were given special permission in April last year to become the first Premier League club to trial the new area.

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The initial plan was to install 1,500 barrier seats to allow supporters to either sit or stand in the north-east corner of the stadium.

But the J Stand area was the one decided upon.

And should the trial prove to be a success, it could be rolled out to different areas of the ground.

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