Scottish football authorities band together for coronavirus response group

Chief executives from both SFA and SPFL come together in joint approach

The SFA and SPFL have joined forces to give a clear response if they have to take action amid an outbreak of the coronavirus in Scotland.

The first case of the deadly illness in Scotland was confirmed yesterday after a patient from Tayside tested positive following a recent trip to Italy.

Matches in the Italian top flight have been cancelled due to the outbreak of the illness and similar measures could be taken in Scotland if the virus spreads.

Hampden Park, Glasgow. Picture: SNS

In order to provide centralised guidance, evalution and action on what impact the coronavirus will have on Scottish football, a group has been established.

It includes SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell and SPFL leader Neil Doncaster, along with the SFA's medical consultant Dr John MacLean.

Doncaster said: "We are in regular dialogue with our counterparts in England and leagues in Europe to share news and best practice on what is clearly a serious and concerning situation.

“At the moment, there have been no indications that match schedules will be affected, but we are monitoring events closely and liaising with the Scottish Government.

“Together with the Scottish FA, we will coordinate the game’s response to the challenges posed by the coronavirus outbreak in a responsible and planned manner. We will obviously update clubs and fans on any developments."

SFA chief Maxwell added: “The safety of everyone involved in attending or participating in a major football event is our foremost consideration and given the developing situation locally and internationally, it is incumbent on the football authorities to speak with one voice. This applies to matches hosted here in Scotland but also for teams participating in competitions outwith the country.

“Our Medical Consultant is in regular dialogue with experts and colleagues across the UK and beyond and we will be guided by the U.K. Chief Medical Officer as well as Dr Catherine Calderwood, the Chief Medical Officer for Scotland.

“While it is important to stress that the current government advice states the risk to individuals is moderate, nonetheless we are starting to see the impact the spread of the virus is having, with the postponement of sporting events across Europe.”