European Nights Return to Anfield with a Strange Sight in the Lower Anfield Road
European nights are returning to Anfield, as Liverpool host Union SG in their first European home game of the season. This special occasion will see Anfield undergo a few cosmetic changes to comply with UEFA regulations, and those who arrive early at the stadium will be the ones to spot what has changed. Once the stadium is full, the fans will hide exactly what UEFA do not want in full view across the world.
The Nike Logo Becomes a Smiley Face
The most noticeable change is what you can see on the seats, namely the Nike and Standard Chartered logo – two Liverpool sponsors but not that of UEFA. It is the former that always attracts the most attention in the lower Anfield Road, though, as the Nike Swoosh suddenly turns into a strange looking smiley face. You can see below just what we mean by that – plus the progress on the new upper tier of the stand that has seen more seats installed.
UEFA Regulations
Both the Nike and Standard Chartered logos, plus any other non-UEFA affiliated sponsors, have consistently been covered during Liverpool’s European adventures for years now. UEFA do not want to promote those they are not affiliated with, and thus the club use coverings to add either extra red or white seats so it is not obvious to viewers what it is.
A Little Amusing
We all know what it hides but we appreciate the club making the process a little amusing and a small talking point for those who get a glimpse before fans occupy the seats. So, if you see this at Anfield either in person or watching from around the world, now you know why the logos are covered and why there is a strange face in the lower Anfield Road.
Conclusion
European nights are returning to Anfield, and with it comes a few changes to comply with UEFA regulations. The most noticeable change is what you can see on the seats, namely the Nike and Standard Chartered logo – two Liverpool sponsors but not that of UEFA. It is the former that always attracts the most attention in the lower Anfield Road, though, as the Nike Swoosh suddenly turns into a strange looking smiley face. UEFA do not want to promote those they are not affiliated with, and thus the club use coverings to add either extra red or white seats so it is not obvious to viewers what it is. We all know what it hides but we appreciate the club making the process a little amusing and a small talking point for those who get a glimpse before fans occupy the seats. Now you know why the logos are covered and why there is a strange face in the lower Anfield Road.