Blackpool and Fleetwood Town games suspended as English football shuts down over coronavirus fears
Blackpool and Fleetwood Town's seasons have been suspended after English football shut down in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
No games will be played until April 3 at the earliest, the EFL has confirmed, at which point the situation will be reassessed again.
The move was discussed in Premier League and EFL meetings this morning, with the latter said to have voted unanimously to suspend matches.
English football had been the last major league to react to the spread of the virus, with matches in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and all Champions League/Europa League games all previously called off.
Furthermore, the virus has impacted Six Nations rugby, Formula One, tennis, golf, NBA basketball, athletics and could potentially lead to this summer's Olympics being postponed.
But action has now been taken in England, with all Premier League and EFL games suspended.
The EFL said in a statement: "This action, which will be kept under constant review, has been taken due to the increasing numbers of clubs taking steps to isolate their players and staff because of the COVID-19 virus.
"The postponements include all matches in the Championship, League One and League Two, as well as all Academy and youth team fixtures.
"In addition, clubs are being advised to suspend indefinitely all non-essential activities which include, but are not limited to, player appearances, training ground visits and fan meetings.
"Whilst the EFL Board has continued to take the advice and guidance offered by the Government and its health advisors, emerging developments mean now is the time to implement football’s contingency plans in response to the crisis.
"A further update on these plans will be given post an EFL Board Meeting next week.
"This decision has not been taken lightly, but the EFL must prioritise the health and well-being of players, staff and supporters while also acknowledging the Government’s national efforts in tackling this outbreak."
It means Blackpool's games against Sunderland (H), Shrewsbury Town (A) and Peterborough United (A) have all been cancelled.
If it is deemed safe, the Seasiders will return to action against Burton Albion on Saturday, April 4.
Fleetwood, meanwhile, have had their games cancelled against Gillingham (A), Rotherham United (H) and Bolton Wanderers (H).
It means their next fixture is due to be away at MK Dons on April 4.