The Premier League, FA, EFL and Women's Super League have collectively decided to call a halt to games until April 4 as the uncertain spread of coronavirus continues.
It had been confirmed on Thursday afternoon that the Premier League's bosses were intending to continue with their schedule of games as planned. However, in light of positive tests for coronavirus recorded by Arsenal's Mikel Arteta and Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi shortly thereafter, a change in plan was required.
On Friday morning, it was announced that the Premier League, FA, EFL and Women's Super League will temporarily put a halt to activity. As of now, this runs up to and including Saturday, April 4.
The Premier League, FA, EFL and WSL have collectively agreed to postpone the professional game in England
Full statement: https://t.co/XcDyzBp4Ol pic.twitter.com/cmYjoY3LRR— Premier League (@premierleague) March 13, 2020
In a statement released by the 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."
Since the announcement of positive coronavirus tests for Arteta and Hudson-Odoi, it has been revealed that Everton has joined the growing list of clubs who have adopted a stance of self-isolation.
This follows similar action taken by the likes of the NBA, PGA Tour, PRO14 and the GAA in ceasing the activity of their games while the pandemic is ongoing. Furthermore, UEFA confirmed this morning that both the Champions League and Europa League would be temporarily halted from next week also.
You can keep fully up to date with how the coronavirus has impacted sport both here in Ireland and abroad here.
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