No pre-match handshakes at SoL amid outbreak
The traditional prematch ‘fair play handshake’ between teams will not occur at the Stadium of Light today after advice from the EFL.
The Football League’s governing body have confirmed that the practice has been suspended until further notice as a precautionary measure following the outbreak of the Coronavirus.
It follows a similar instruction issued by the Premier League on Thursday. The EFL added in a statement that they remain in ‘regular dialogue’ with the government over potential developments.
Earlier this week, health secretary Matt Hancock said hecouldnotruleoutthepossibilityoffootballmatchesbeing played behind-closed-doors at some stage, but added that it was something the government were keen to avoid.
A statement from the EFL read: “Matchday operations at EFL grounds are set to continue this weekend with clubs beingadvisedtotakeappropriatepreventionmeasuresasper the Government guidance.
“It is understood, however, that individual clubs may take decisions at a local level to help mitigate the risk of the virus spreading further ahead of this weekend’s matches.
“The EFL continues to remain in regular dialogue with theGovernmentregardingthe ongoing developments and is being appraised on a regular basis of developments that could potentially impact our clubs and Competitions.
“We will continue to provide EFL clubs with updates and advice as it is issued to ensure that they have all the relevant up-to date information so that they can continue to advise their players, staff and supporters.Thesemattersare subjecttoconstantchangeand wewillupdateasappropriate.”