Day off from training for Blackpool's players amid shutdown of English football over coronavirus pandemic

Blackpool's players are on a day off from training today as they become accustomed to the shutdown of English football over the coronavirus pandemic.
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Blackpool skipper Jay Spearing hopes to extend his stay at Bloomfield Road

Neil Critchley did lead training on Saturday following the cancellation of the Sunderland game, while Pool will continue to train on some days.

It comes after last week's announcement that all professional football in England is suspended over the outbreak of the coronavirus.

Blackpool boss Neil CritchleyBlackpool boss Neil Critchley
Blackpool boss Neil Critchley
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No games will be played until April 3 at the earliest, the EFL confirmed, at which point the situation will be reassessed again.

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 was eventually taken in England, with all Premier League and EFL games suspended.

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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.

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"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.

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The reception, ticket office and club shop are all closed at Bloomfield Road until Monday, March 23 at the earliest.

The club confirmed last week that all tickets purchased for the postponed games will remain valid for the rearranged date.