Manchester City Football Club has started a contactless payment card trial to allow supporters to gain access to the stadium and buy goods around the ground.

Cardholders will be able to pay for purchases up to £10 and additional funds can be added online, by phone or via pay points at specific retailers. The cards can also be used anywhere in the UK for Mastercard contactless and chip-and-PIN payments.

The club will replace the standard season tickets issued to supporters with the new pass. Some 3,500 season ticket holders have volunteered to take part in the trial, which will last until the end of this season.

“Manchester City Football Club is leading the way on innovative solutions for improving the matchday experience for supporters,”said Manchester City’s head of retail Duncan Martin.

“This technology allows Manchester City supporters to access the stadium electronically and make purchases under £10 quickly and this will help reduce queuing time and allow supporters to get into their seats for the game."