A Government meeting with sporting authorities is reportedly set to discuss the option of staging events behind closed doors amid concerns over coronavirus.

According to reports in the national media, the meeting will be held on Monday - and there is a "growing expectation" that Premier League matches could be played in empty stadiums within weeks.

The BBC says that tomorrow's apparent discussions will be hosted by the government's Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in London.

Reports suggest that sports governing bodies and broadcasters - including the Premier League - will be in attendance.

And the BBC article states that "senior government officials will seek advice on the practicalities of staging sports events without fans, should it be needed."

The ECHO contacted the Premier League for comment.

The governing body did not issue a statement, but it is understood the league is regularly meeting with the Government and taking advice on matters relating to coronavirus.

David Maddock, Northern Football Correspondent for the Mirror, posted on Twitter this evening: "Hate to say it, but it seems inevitable the govt will insist games be played behind closed doors soon - possibly by end of month or first week in Apr".

And Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce has said: "In all seriousness, we know there is a big meeting on Monday.

"All of us are obviously concerned. When you hear the threat of what is happening in Italy and playing behind closed doors, you have to think of people's health. We will all be guided."

Liverpool are now just six points away from claiming the Premier League crown.

There is the possibility of the title being clinched at Anfield against Crystal Palace on March 21st, or even Goodison Park next Monday depending on Manchester City's results.

Matches in several top flight football leagues across Europe have already been impacted by coronavirus concerns.

And it appears that the Europa League could soon be affected too, with reports indicating Olympiakos vs Wolves on Thursday will be played without spectators.

It has been confirmed tonight that a third person in the UK who tested positive for coronavirus has died.

More than 270 cases of the illness, which can cause severe lung issues, have been identified across the UK according to Government figures.