Is the first row on Friday better, even if it is far from the imam, or is being close to him better, even if it is in the second row?

Question:
He says: Honorable Shaykh, may Allah grant you success. The author (may Allah have mercy on him) mentioned that it is a recommended practice (sunnah) to be close to the imam. So, if I come and I have the choice between being in the first row but far from the imam, either to the right or the left, or being in the second row but close to the imam, which is better?

Answer:
Being close to the imam is better. It is better to be close to the imam, even if it is in the second row. Yes.