FOOTBALLERS have been banned from shaking hands with their opponents for tomorrow's matches in a bid to stop the spread of the Coronavirus.

The National League North have banned pre-match hand shakes until further notice.

In addition to this Hereford FC have also banned players from spitting during training and matches.

“Football is a contact sport so we’re never going to rule out all forms of contact between players,” Hereford boss Josh Gowling told the club's official website.

“Spitting is one thing that we can cut out straight away. The players are all aware of the importance of increasing the frequency and time spent washing their hands and we’ll continue to follow government advice."

The Hellenic League which Westfields, Hereford Pegasus, Hereford Lads Club and Wellington play in have also banned handshakes.

A statement on the Hellenic League website said: "The the uhlsport Hellenic League executive committee have decided that handshakes before and after matches will be suspended until further notice. This includes: The pre-match handshakes as part of the respect campaign by players and officials; handshakes by captains and officials at the toss of the coin prior to the start of the match; handshakes by players and officials after the final whistle."