The English Premier League has banned pre-match handshakes following rising concerns over the spread of coronavirus.

The league confirmed the development on Thursday, saying the fair-play handshake will be suspended “until further notice based on medical advice”.

A statement posted on EPL’s official website reads: “The Premier League fair-play handshake will not take place between players and match officials from this weekend until further notice based on medical advice.

“Coronavirus is spread via droplets from the nose and mouth and can be transmitted on to the hands and passed on via a handshake.”

However, other pre-match rituals will be done.

“Clubs and match officials will still perform the rest of the traditional walk-out protocol ahead of each fixture. On entering the field of play, the two teams will continue to line up, accompanied by the Premier League music, then players from the home team will walk past their opposition without shaking their hands.”