As part of initiatives to stem the spread of coronavirus, the Premier League management has banned the pre-match handshake that is as orthodox as any aspect of matches themselves.
There has been fear over what may happen to the remaining part of the season, with some thinking it may be cancelled or postponed.
While this lingers, teams have been told by Premier League chiefs that they will still line up as usual before kick-off, but the home team will walk past the away side without shaking hands.
According to AFP, the measure is in response to the threat of the potentially deadly virus, with more than 90,000 cases reported in 87 countries.
“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,” a statement on the Premier League’s website said.
“Coronavirus is spread via droplets from the nose and mouth and can be transmitted on to the hands and passed on via a handshake.”
