Brentford FC will be making some slight changes to its matchday operation due to the ongoing concerns posed by Covid-19 (aka the Coronavirus). The Club has been regularly briefed by the EFL and other stakeholders about the ongoing issue and can confirm that no members of Brentford FC on-field or off-field staff are currently in self-isolation or suffering any symptoms of Covid-19 and matches can continue as normal. However, in order to ensure the health of our players and football staff, there will be alterations to our usual routine.

The Club’s Training Ground, in Osterley, is currently closed to all non-essential visitors. Brentford FC will continue to meet its media obligations under the EFL contracts but will be reducing player and staff interaction unless strictly necessary. We will resume a full media service as soon as possible.

The EFL has announced that following specific medical advice, the Fair Play handshake between players and match officials will not take place until further notice. Whilst Government guidance remains unchanged, a decision has been taken due to the way in which the Covid-19 virus can be transmitted through a handshake. The EFL remains in regular dialogue with the Government regarding the ongoing concerns posed by the Coronavirus and is being appraised on a regular basis of developments that could potentially impact the competitions we participate in.

Players will also, unfortunately, not be able to shake hands, sign autographs or pose for pictures with supporters. As such we will not have players in Bee Block or the Club Shop at home games until further notice. Players will also not be at the Fanzone in Watermans Park tomorrow but there is still plenty for our young supporters to do. There will also, unfortunately, not be the opportunity for our hospitality guests to meet players or staff at games until further notice.

Player and staff entry and departure for the game tomorrow will be altered. Players will not meet fans before or after the game and we ask supporters to understand and respect this as part of the need to protect the health of all. Player visits and appearances have also been cancelled, or will be subject to change, until further notice. With our B Team working closely with our First Team at the Training Ground, the above will also apply to players and staff in that squad as well.

The Club will, in all other areas, be continuing as normal and supporters are asked to take all measures they can to protect themselves and others. Supporters with Covid-19 symptoms should self-isolate and if anyone feels unwell at the game, stewards will be able to help. The latest advice from the NHS on Covid-19 can be seen at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/. We thank all fans in advance for their help and understanding in this matter.