Photo: GEPA pictures/ Christian Ort

Hammers fans who had been banned from travelling to the game in Vienna next Thursday may be able to claim refunds after all.

The news this morning that Austria will impose a lockdown for all from Monday  and make vaccinations mandatory  may open the way for Hammers fans to reclaim their out of pocket expenses.

Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg announced the lockdown will come in from Monday as coronavirus cases spiral.

Indeed, had it stood given the situation with covid,  the ban may have been a blessing in disguise anyway despite the lost money.

Now, however, refunds – certainly from airlines and hotels – may be on the cards for those fans who thought they had lost their cash whilst we await news as to whether the game will now in fact be played behind closed doors..