A petition calling for the return of standing in Premier League games is gaining ground and could force MPs to consider a parliamentary debate on the matter.
The call for safe standing, posted on the Parliament official website, has reached over 50,000 signatures, three days after UK Sports Minister Tracey Crouch claimed only a "vocal minority" wanted them.
"Safe standing offers a much safer alternative to fans who wish to stand, rather than sit at football matches," the petition reads.
"After the highly successful introduction to rail seating at Celtic Park, as well as numerous Bundesliga clubs, many football fans feel that laws preventing standing areas should be relaxed."
The petition requires 100,00 signatures for the proposition to be considered for debate in Parliament.
Crouch sparked controversy on Wednesday after she rejected an application by West Bromwich Albion to pilot safe standing in one section of The Hawthorns.
Jon Darch, leader of the campaign for safe standing areas in the English game, criticised the decision.
"Her actions and out-of-touch comments have roused fans into a response and the 50,000-plus who have now signed the Government petition calling for clubs to be allowed to introduce safe standing show just how strong the feeling is," Darch told the Sunday Telegraph.
"It looks well set to secure 100,000 signatures and thus to have the matter considered for a parliamentary debate.