Manchester United have become the first Premier League club to appoint a counter-terrorism manager, pointing the way to a new reality for all clubs and match-going fans.

Over recent seasons, after attacks in Paris and beyond, we have already seen an increase in the security around the Emirates. Now, as you approach the stadium you are required to open your coat before ascending the steps to the main concourse outside the ground. If you have a bag with you, they will also check it here before checking it again at the gate where it is tagged to show that it has been searched. Everybody is also patted down before entering the stadium.

Just this week it was revealed that two police officers were commended for their bravery when they foiled a terror attack at the Emirates. PC Jason Hodgson and PC Alex Field tackled a ‘machete-wielding man in a suicide vest’ as he was approaching the ground at the start of 2016.

Welcome to football in 2017.