Premier League clubs discussed one of the most emotive issues in English football this week when they met to debate so-called “safe standing” and its possible introduction.

Safe-standing areas, featuring retractable seats, have been introduced in some countries and the Premier League said in a statement that clubs had asked for a number of issues to be investigated before further discussions could take place.

All-seater stadiums became mandatory in England’s top two divisions following the Hillsborough disaster in 1989 when 96 fans were killed in a crush at the FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest.

The Premier League said: “Given that fan safety is of paramount concern, clubs are cautious and there was no overall consensus on the matter.

“This is a complex and emotive topic with a number of issues, varying from club to club, which need to be considered carefully before clubs can decide if they wish to pursue any changes.”

Hillsborough Support Group secretary Sue Roberts told the BBC it would be a “backwards step” to bring back standing.

“We have a tendency to forget things in history. I think it’s one step in the wrong direction, that will lead to another and another,” Roberts said.

Football Supporters Federation chief Malcolm Clarke, however, said safe standing would be a “win for everyone”.

“What we want to see is fans who want to stand being able to do so in properly designed safe-standing areas, and those who want to sit being able to do so without people standing in front of them.”