A statement addressing the coronavirus has been released by the English Football League (EFL) tonight following on from Prime Minister Boris Johnson's comments earlier on this afternoon.
Johnson was speaking about how the country is entering the 'delay' phase in the battle against COVID-19 and what it might mean for large public gatherings in the future.
He said there is scope to ban sporting fixtures from taking place, but not because of the fear of the disease spreading but more because of the demand it places on vital public services needed elsewhere during the pandemic.
Nottingham Forest play Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough on Saturday (3pm) and the match is still scheduled to go ahead.
That's despite some Leagues in Europe playing behind closed doors or cancelling games altogether.
"In light of today’s announcement by the UK Government, EFL matches will continue to take place as normal while the guidance from the relevant authorities remains that there is no medical rationale to close or cancel sporting events at this time," the statement read.
"The EFL, however, will continue to work with Government and relevant stakeholders to further develop contingency plans to ensure the League is best placed to act as and when any potential restrictions may come into force.
"Immediately following the announcement by the Prime Minister, EFL Chair Rick Parry held discussions with the FA and Premier League and agreed on a consistent approach ahead of this weekend’s round of fixtures.
"Matters will be further discussed at a meeting called by European Football’s Governing body, UEFA, on Tuesday 17 March.
"The League will continue to liaise with the Government regarding ongoing developments and will continue to work with Clubs to ensure players, staff and supporters are updated and appraised accordingly.
"These matters are, of course, subject to change and we will update as appropriate."
