Blackpool provide an update on League One fixture with Sunderland after coronavirus outbreak

National reports have suggested that the EFL and Premier League are set to go ‘behind closed doors’ for their remaining fixtures as Coronavirus continues to spread throughout the country.

The idea of postponing the 2019/20 season – or cancelling it completely – has also been mooted, with a government announcement on Thursday afternoon set to lay out their plans for mass gatherings such as football matches.

And that has naturally thrown Sunderland’s remaining fixtures into doubt, starting with Saturday’s scheduled trip to Blackpool.

But the Seasiders have confirmed that they are preparing as usual for the League One game, with manager Critchley not focused on off-field matters.

“First and foremost, it’s obviously not an ideal scenario and it’s quite unique circumstances,” he said, speaking to the Blackpool Gazette.

“At the moment we just prepare as normal, we have to, until we hear any different.

“We’re waiting for guidance from the government and the footballing authorities. Until that happens, we just have to get on with our jobs and prepare for what we hope will be a really good game on Saturday.

“Peoples’ health and welfare is more important, so if it does come to playing behind closed doors then so be it, it’ll have to happen unfortunately.”