PREMIER LEAGUE clubs are reportedly unwilling to let their players travel overseas for the upcoming international break amid coronavirus fears.
It was revealed earlier on Thursday how six top-flight stars were showing symptoms of the contagious bug – with three of those individuals contracted to Leicester.
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Premier League clubs are reportedly against the idea of allowing their players to travel overseasCredit: Rex Features
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has declared that sporting events could now be banned in an effort to stop the outbreak.
Speaking at an emergency Cobra meeting, he said: “We are considering the question of banning major public events such as sporting fixtures.
“The scientific advice is that this will have little effect on the spread but there’s also the issue of the burden such events can place on public services.”
And now according to the Daily Mail, Premier League sides do not want to release their players as they look to protect them.
They claim that they know of at least two clubs that have banned all travel on commercial flights, with top-flight doctors wary of the dangers that could ensue.
At a summit meeting on Thursday, doctors discussed the coronavirus crisis, with emphasis on formulating guidelines should matches be played behind closed doors.
The Mail add that all 20 heads of medical have been keeping in close contact with each other over how to deal with the pandemic.
Football League matches scheduled for this weekend will go ahead as planned, and there is no indication that Premier League games will be postponed.
A statement from the EFL read: “In light of today’s announcement by the UK government, EFL matches will continue to take place as normal while the guidance from the relevant authorities remains that there is no medical rationale to close or cancel sporting events.
“The EFL, however, will continue to work with the government and relevant stakeholders to further develop contingency plans to ensure the league is best placed to act as and when any potential restrictions may come into force.”
Earlier today, Chelsea cancelled their training after someone close to the squad displayed symptoms of the illness.
And former Southampton striker Mano Gabbiadini has tested positive for coronavirus, along with Italian compatriot Daniele Rugani.
Manchester City’s Champions League tie against Real Madrid on Tuesday has been called off, as well as Juventus’ match against Lyon.
Uefa are now considering suspending the competition along with the Europa League, with Euro 2020 to be potentially pushed back by a year.
La Liga suspended and Real Madrid training ground in lockdown after positive coronavirus test
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
