'After 282 days, it's time COME ON!' Brighton fans buzzing to be back at the Amex Stadium

Brighton fans are back at the Amex Stadium for the Premier League match against Southampton

It's first time spectators have been allowed into a league game at the AMEX since February, although the club’s pre-season friendly against Chelsea in August was used as a pilot event before plans for a general return were put on hold.

The last time fans saw Brighton in home action was probably one to forget as they suffered a 1-0 loss to rivals Crystal Palace way back in February.

Potter said: “We hope that it’s a really positive impact. I am sure the players will look forward to seeing them and playing in front of them. It’s what makes football, ultimately.

Brighton fans take their seats for the Southampton match

“We have had games at home even after lockdown – Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool – the games we have lost are arguably the ones where you really need the supporters, we have had to play those behind closed doors.

“We hope we can use the support, we hope that we can play well and get them involved in the game, that they provide a good atmosphere and that can help us against a good opponent and get a positive result.”

Brighton fans were buzzing to be back and here's some reaction from social media:

@ryanhill101: I wasn’t bothered about people having a ticket for tonight, but I’m slightly jealous now #BHAFC

@PhilipCobby: Well this is weird, Brighton at home, some fans there and I'm watching on telly! Jealous of everyone there for sure! #BHAFC #BHASOU

@BrettMendoza_ After 282 days, its time to go to the football #bhafc

@billywilliams93: Very jealous of the 2000 at the game tonight. Lamptey masterclass incoming #bhafc

@bhafcstateside: So, so happy to see fans going back to the Amex. Can’t wait to hear you all from across the pond! #BHAFC #BHASOU

@groddy_bhafc: Pitch is absolute picture perfect btw #bhafc

@Brightonfan: Southampton at home. To all of the 2,000 of us going I am extremely jealous. But be our twelfth man tonight, because for some of us we are not there but there in spirit! #bhafc

@daves143: To many this is just Brighton v Saints.....to me this game is up there with Brighton v Palace!! Beat.The.Saints!! #BHAFC #BHASOU

@skhadr: Good to see you again, old friend. #bhafc

@MartynS61: Back at The Amex...with a @pigletspantry1 chicken and gammon pie...and supporting Rainbow Laces #bhafc #BHASOU #seagulls