The SFA have announced that a Coronavirus response group has been formed to deal with any potential implications the disease may cause.
Coronavirus has spread across the globe and this group’s task is to evaluate the potential impact it could have on Scottish football.
Over in Italy it has had a serious impact on Serie A fixtures. Some matches have been postponed in recent weeks to help limit the spread of the disease that has become a global concern.
The group formed by the SFA will have to consider potential risk for all age groups, plus the impact it could have on professional domestic matches in the women and men’s game.
That’s on top of the factors that must be considered for national team matches. In an SFA statement, Chief Executive Ian Maxwell has said that safety must take precedence in this situation.
“The safety of everyone involved in attending or participating in a major football event is our foremost consideration,” he said. “Given the developing situation locally and internationally, it is incumbent on the football authorities to speak with one voice in providing guidance and reassurance to stakeholders.
“The response group will co-ordinate activity daily to ensure Scottish football takes the necessary measures to safeguard the wellbeing of everyone involved in the national game amid the outbreak.”
SPFL Chief Executive Neil Doncaster has also spoken about this announcement, saying that regular contact is being made with those south of the border in regards to the best way to approach this issue.
“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,” said Doncaster
“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 to ensure we are as well prepared as possible.”