Premier League, EFL confirm suspension until April after coronavirus outbreak

The Premier League, EFL and WSL have been suspended until early April due to the outbreak of coronavirus.

The Premier League have announced a suspension until April 4 at the earliest, while the EFL will be on hold until April 3, when Leeds are scheduled to play at Blackburn.

A statement on the Premier League’s website reads: “Following a meeting of Shareholders today, it was unanimously decided to suspend the Premier League with the intention of returning on 4 April, subject to medical advice and conditions at the time.

Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said: “Above all, we wish Mikel Arteta and Callum Hudson-Odoi speedy recoveries, and everyone else affected by COVID-19.

“In this unprecedented situation, we are working closely with our clubs, Government, The FA and EFL and can reassure everyone the health and welfare of players, staff and supporters are our priority.”

The Premier League’s aim is to reschedule the displaced fixtures, including those played by Academy sides, when it is safe to do so.

It follows the news that Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta and Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi have contracted the virus.

Three Leicester players are also being tested, while Everton announced on Thursday that the squad was in self-isolation after a player reported symptoms consistent with the virus, while Bournemouth have also reported five members of staff have contracted the virus.

Watford cancelled Thursday’s training session and manager Nigel Pearson says one of his players is awaiting test results after exhibiting symptoms of the virus.

Pearson said: “We’ve had players, as most clubs will have done, who have had symptoms of not being well. We’ve had players experiencing illness this week, who have stayed at home.

“We had somebody with a chest infection, somebody with an upset stomach and players who have shown flu-like symptoms. We’ve got one player awaiting tests results on his symptoms.”

Bournemouth announced five of their employees, including goalkeeper Artur Boruc, were self-isolating having displayed symptoms consistent with the virus.

A statement from the club said: “Goalkeeper Artur Boruc, along with four first-team members of staff, are self-isolating in line with Government and Public Health guidelines. This is a precautionary measure as, at this stage, none have tested positive for coronavirus.

“The club continues to monitor the situation closely and to take suitable measures to ensure the wellbeing of its employees and supporters. Further updates will be provided as necessary via the club’s website and social media channels.”