All football postponed until April 4 at earliest in virus fight
ALL Football Association of Wales (FAW) matches have been suspended in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, writes HARRI EVANS.
The news was just confirmed after the Premier League and EFL confirmed similar action and the FAW followed suit soon after.
Premier League games will now not be played until April 3 “at the earliest” while EFL games could resume the day after.
The statement says that the action was being taken in a bid to curb the spread of Covid-19 after several footballing figures started displaying symptoms of the coronavirus.
Clubs have also been advised to suspend all “non-essential activities.”
Domestic football “at all levels in Wales” has also been suspended “with immediate effect until 4 April due to the COVID-19 outbreak.”
This means all grassroots games throughout the North Wales pyramid are also on hold until at least early next month but there is a possibility the suspension could be extended. The FAW statement in full reads: “The intention at this time will be to resume the football schedule depending on the medical advice and conditions from the relevant authorities at that time.
“The FAW is fully aware of the impact this will have on the domestic game but the health and safety of all fans, players, volunteers and stakeholders are of paramount importance.
“The FAW will continue to monitor this situation on a day-by-day basis and will continue to provide updates when appropriate.”
The news came on the same morning that the entire Everton squad was put into self-isolation after one of its players reported symptoms. Arsenal FC manager Mikel Arteta also tested positive for the coronavirus.
A statement read by the EFL said: “The FA, Premier League, EFL and Barclays FA Women’s Super League and FA Women’s Championship have collectively agreed to postpone the professional game in England until 3 April at the earliest.
“This action, which will be kept under constant review, has been taken due to the increasing numbers of Clubs taking steps to isolate their players and staff because of the COVID-19 virus.
“The postponements include all matches in the Championship, League One and League Two, as well as all Academy and youth team fixtures. In addition, Clubs are being advised to suspend indefinitely all non-essential activities which include, but are not limited to, player appearances, training ground visits and fan meetings.
“Whilst the EFL Board has continued to take the advice and guidance offered by the Government and its health advisors, emerging developments mean now is the time to implement football’s contingency plans in response to the crisis. A further update on these plans will be given post an EFL Board Meeting next week.
“This decision has not been taken lightly, but the EFL must prioritise the health and well-being of players, staff and supporters while also acknowledging the Government’s national efforts in tackling this outbreak.”