Manchester City fullback Kyle Walker was delighted seeing the Etihad stadium full last week.
The England right-back says it is a moment he had been looking forward to since football went behind closed doors some 18 months ago.
He also says playing in empty stadiums had become the norm for players – though it was anything but normal.
“It is fantastic to have our fans back," said Walker.
“I got a little taste of it in the summer and you kind of forget a little bit how important that noise is.
“Not just for the result or the game, but for yourself. We have grown up, playing for how long with fans?
“For something to happen like it has in the past few years was really tough.
“You get used to it sadly, just going to the ground empty and the lads or staff on the bench are there and trying to make the atmosphere.
“As I say, I got a taste of it with fans back in the Euros with England and then as soon as I heard our fans all back at the Etihad on Saturday, it was a fantastic moment and a very proud moment, too."
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