This decision affects all Jewish teams, including London Lions (Spartan South Midlands League), the Chesman League, MGBSFL, MJSL, Maccabi Masters, Garston Vets League, Southern Amateur and the Watford Friendly League.

MGBSFL chairman David Wolff said: “Football is very much secondary in these unprecedented times and it is more important that players and their families remain safe and well.

“There is no need for us to take any immediate action at the present time but I would ask you to read the contents of this email and digest what we are being asked to consider.”

South Manchester chairman Jonny Davis said: “The note from the FA did not surprise me. Right now football is at the bottom of the list. It’s unfortunate and most probably has never happened before, so we just have to accept it and move on.”