COVID-19 update: National League set to hold meeting amid growing coronavirus concerns – Hartlepool United, Chesterfield, Notts County and more all set to play as it stands

With fixtures set to take place this weekend, the National League are currently standing by Thursday's statement from the Football Association following Government guidance.

Hartlepool United are travelling the length of the country to face Sutton United on Saturday which is due to kick-off at the usual time of 3pm as it stands.

The National League have made no official statement on the developing situation other than the banning of pre-match handshakes.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Chelsea midfielder Callum Hudson-Odoi have tested positive for COVID-19 this week which has prompted emergency meetings for both the Premier League and EFL in regard to suspending fixtures. At this stage, the National League are set to have a meeting to decide their next step.

The FA statement read: “The latest advice from Government is that there is presently no rationale to close or cancel sporting events, but this may change as the situation evolves.

“There is a higher likelihood of severe illness the older you are (not an increased chance of contracting the virus), with those under 25 likely to be unaffected by the disease. However, there is no age-specific guidance at this moment in time.

“Sports are asked to keep up to date with and follow Government and Public Health England guidance.”

While the National League’s stance as of Friday morning will see fixtures to continue as normal, the suspension of the Premier League and EFL has put them under pressure to follow suit.