Football authorities: Season can be concluded if Covid-19 protocols are followed

A joint statement was issued on Thursday evening amid the growing number of infections as a result of the pandemic.

Starting this week, EFL clubs have undergone mandatory bi-weekly testing funded by the Professional Footballers’ Association.

It comes after a number of matches have been suspended as a result of positive Covid-19 tests, including Morecambe’s post-Christmas games against Bolton Wanderers and Bradford City.

As a result, the Shrimps have 26 matches left in a League Two campaign which is due to end on Saturday, May 8.

The statement, which carries the names of FA CEO Mark Bullingham and his counterparts at the Premier League and EFL, Richard Masters and Trevor Birch respectively, reads: “The Football Association, Premier League, EFL and Barclays Women’s Super League have this week introduced enhanced Covid-19 measures and stressed their importance to everyone in the game.

“Safety is a collective effort and football requires the ongoing support of clubs, managers, players and all those involved in staging matches to continue to manage the spread of infection and set the right example to the public on and off the pitch.

“We will offer guidance, education and support as well as reviewing our practices to ensure they remain of the highest standard.

“Our three organisations have confidence in our Covid-19 protocols and our ability to bring the season to a successful conclusion.

“Throughout this crisis, the health, safety and wellbeing of all participants has been our number one priority and by following the national rules and football’s own strict medical and scientific advice, football has been able to maintain its privileged position and continue to engage and entertain millions of people around the country.

“The game has a responsibility and during this next critical period it is down to everyone involved to ensure they follow Government rules and our protocols.

“We have seen the huge contribution players have made to the national effort and they must continue to use their influence in demonstrating the importance of following the rules.

“With full compliance to our Covid-19 protocols - alongside effective testing regimes - we are confident at the halfway point of the season that, with the support of all, the 2020/21 campaign will continue to its conclusion in May.”

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