Sheffield Wednesday boss Garry Monk claims “fans are number one” amid talk of matches behind closed doors due to Coronavirus

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, ahead of this weekend’s clash against Nottingham Forest, the Owls boss was asked for the latest news on how the club was preparing for the possibility of the game being postponed amid uncertainty caused by the pandemic.

Monk said: “I think we're governed by the authorities and that side of things – the advice they've given is correct. As it stands, the game is on, and that's how we prepare until we're told otherwise. That's how we've been approaching it all week, that's how we've been focused until we're told otherwise.”

He continued: “We do as much as we possibly can (to ensure correct hygiene procedures at the club), the guidelines you have to follow, we've done that and stuck to them. No-one has had or reported anything in terms of illnesses. Everyone is following that (the precautions)”

When addressing how he would feel about the game being played behind closed doors – an outcome which has been suggested widely across the national media today – Monk said: “I don't think we have a choice in any of that, it's down to the authorities. I get the argument behind both - the fans are number one. To play in front of them is what we're all here to do, the ultimate aim.”

The Owls boss concluded: “At the end of the day, the decision will be dictated by the powers that be. Whatever they chose, that's what they follow.”

A number of football matches across Europe have either been played behind closed doors, postponed, or cancelled over the last few days, with La Liga being postponed for the next two match days, and Italian side Inter withdrawing from all sporting activities following news that Juventus – their last opponents - star Daniele Rugani had tested positive for Coronavirus.

We await further news from the EFL this afternoon, as to whether there will be any adjustments made to this weekend’s set of Championship matches.