Albion fans could be facing a mid-winter lockout as the Premier League battle against Covid.

Playing before reduced attendances, or even in empty stadia, will be discussed when Premier League clubs meet this afternoon.

Managers, players and some football club administrators believe that a potential circuit-breaker or reduced capacity – even as far as going behind closed doors – has to be on the agenda for serious debate at a time when infection rates are rising rapidly.

A postponement of some fixtures, most likely the round after Boxing Day which sees Albion visit Chelsea, will come under discussion.

It is possible there could be a combination of the above measures - postponements PLUS reduced capacity for the fixtures which remain in place.

As they discuss the situation this afternoon, the 20 clubs will be keen to be supportive – and be seen as supportive - of the NHS, which is coming under increasing pressure.

A reduction of capacity to, for example, 50% would allow fans to sit with vacant seats between them, wearing masks and out in the fresh air, as well as reducing crowding on public transport.

But it is understood a temporary return to empty stadia is being seen by some clubs as increasingly probable.