NEWPORT County AFC manager Michael Flynn has welcomed the “sensible” decision to suspend all matches in the Premier League and English Football League until at least April 3 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Football Association, the Premier League the EFL, FA Women's Super League and FA Women's Championship all agreed to call a halt to competitive action with immediate effect this morning, while the Football Association of Wales followed suit soon afterwards.

The news was confirmed after various Premier League players and staff were affected by the virus and individuals began to self-isolate as a precaution after reporting symptoms consistent with Covid-19.

A statement from the EFL read: "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.

"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."

South Wales Argus:

County were due to travel to Stevenage tomorrow but that match has now been postponed, along with Tuesday’s trip to Crawley Town, next Saturday’s home clash with Colchester United and the away matches at Cheltenham Town and Salford City.

“I think it’s a sensible decision for the health and wellbeing of the players and the fans,” said Flynn.

“It’s not ideal but we’ve got to get on with it, we’ve got to be responsible.

“There’s the wider picture – you don’t want your kids and other family members catching it. We’ve all got to be responsible.”

Asked if he had a message for the fans, the Exiles boss said: “There’s not much you can say.

“Look at the 49 fans who went the other night all the way to Carlisle on a Tuesday – that’s an unbelievable effort – and there will be fans who were planning to go to Stevenage as well.

“It doesn’t go unnoticed by us what the fans do – those that travel all around the country and the home fans as well.

“They are the life and soul of this football club and you don’t want them being disappointed that they can’t watch football, but I’d much rather they were healthy.”