Premier League tipped for major Coronavirus announcement - How will Sheffield United be impacted?

As Coronavirus continues to spread across the globe, the pandemic's impact on football is continuing to deepen, with a number of matches being played behind closed doors, and some being called off altogether.
(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

This morning, national media reports broke the news that the government is preparing to step up its response to the issue and shift to the 'delay phase' of action, ahead of today's Cobra meeting.

Reports suggest that, as the number of confirmed cases in the UK edges closer to 500, all matches - from the Premier League down to lower levels - will be played behind closed doors, allowing the season to be concluded in normal time without the need for delay.

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Rather than the initial suggestion that all matches would be available to stream or watch on subscription television, the report suggests that Premier League ticket holders will be able to stream the games from home, while supporters of EFL sides will continue to have access via iFollow.

15:00 kick-offs will not, as ever, be televised, but broadcasters such as Sky Sports and BT Sport may be allowed to show additional matches in their usual lunchtime and teatime slots, as well as Monday nights.

Last night, Italian giants Juventus confirmed that their star defender Daniele Rugani had tested positive for Coronavirus, prompting Inter - their last opponents - to announce their withdrawal from all sporting activities until further notice.

Arsenal's match against Manchester City, which was due to take place last night, was postponed, due to Nottingham Forest's owner recently coming into contact with a number of Gunners stars.