Nottingham Forest have issued an apology after a number of fans missed kick-off for today’s FA Cup tie against Luton Town.

Swathes of Reds supporters missed the start of the third round clash at the City Ground as they were late getting into the stadium. Forest have said the sub-zero temperatures meant a delay in opening the Upper Bridgford turnstiles.

A club statement said: “We regret that due to the freezing conditions around The City Ground for today’s FA Cup tie against Luton Town, a number of supporters were unable to access the Upper Bridgford stand ahead of kick off. Despite regular gritting ahead of kick off, persistent and stubborn icy conditions on the vomitories dictated that a small number of turnstiles providing access to the Upper Bridgford stand had to be closed in the interests of the safety of supporters.

“Thankfully the vast majority of fans were inside the stadium within ten minutes of kick off, but the club wishes to apologise sincerely to those fans who were inconvenienced as a result of this issue. The safety and security of our staff and supporters is our number one priority on matchdays.”

Supporters took to social media to express their frustrations. On X, @phil_from_NG posted: “15:20 and huge queues outside to get in Upper Bridgford. Some very upset kids. Absolute shambles.”

Another, @The_Colonel1978, posted: “MOK sounds great from outside...massive queue still at bridgford upper...joke #nffc”

Meanwhile, @gemilouisexo said: “What a disaster in upper bridgford today. Came down at 2pm as I know cup games take longer to get in. Spent an hour and 30 mins queuing to get in the ground, finally got sat down in my seat at 3.30pm. Not good enough”

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side went into the game against the Hatters looking to extend their winning streak to seven games in all competitions. The Portuguese named a completely different starting XI from Monday night’s 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League.

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