North East football clubs fall victim to coronavirus suspension

Newcastle, Sunderland and Middlesbrough football clubs will not play until next month due to a suspension over coronavirus.

The Premier League announced on Friday morning it had agreed with the FA, English Football League and Women's Super League to postpone the professional game in England for three weeks.

It followed an emergency meeting of shareholders, who made the decision to put the season on hold with the intention of returning on April 4, "subject to medical advice and conditions at the time".

In a statement, Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters called the situation unprecedented and offered his well-wishes to those who have tested positive for the virus in some of the nation's top league clubs:

The organisation added that despite the challenges, it was the Premier League’s aim to reschedule the displaced fixtures and further updates would be provided when appropriate.

It comes following a call earlier on Friday morning by Newcastle United head coach Steve Bruce to put matches on hold amid the growing spread of coronavirus.

The Magpies were due to face Sheffield United at St James' Park on Saturday.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday morning, Mr Bruce said measures needed to be ramped up:

Friday's announcement will also mean Sunderland and Middlesbrough matches on Saturday will not go ahead.

League One side Sunderland was due to play away at Blackpool on Saturday while Championship team Middlesbrough were set for a home match against Swansea City.