Brighton’s bid to keep team safe from virus

BRIGHTON have stepped up precautions to protect players and staff after coronavirus spread to the city last week.

a number of reported cases of the virus have been linked to Brighton and a spokesperson for the club said: ‘We have contacted all staff about ways of protecting themselves against the virus and good respiratory hygiene practices, in line with World Health Organisation guidelines.

‘We have increased hand sanitising gel availability and labelling around the facilities. The situation is being monitored by our medical staff.’

Brighton’s first-team players were away last week in Tenerife, having been given time off during the winter break.

They are due back in today ahead of a return to action for graham Potter (right) and his side at Sheffield United on Saturday.

During the break, players from the club’s other sides and many members of staff remained in the city — where concern about the virus has grown.

Last Wednesday, it emerged that Steve Walsh — a businessman from Hove who had returned from Singapore — was linked to 11 cases including five in Brighton.

The rapid spread of coronavirus has had a huge impact on the sporting world.

Shanghai’s Chinese grand Prix, scheduled for april, was postponed, along with the World indoor athletics Championships.

The four opening tournaments in golf’s Pga Tour Series-China have been cancelled, while the Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament has been moved.

Meanwhile a number of Premier League clubs expected to make pre-season trips to the Far East have put their plans on hold.