Carlisle United's season is set to continue despite the new national Covid-19 lockdown.

The Government have confirmed that "elite sport" - which includes matches in the EFL - will be permitted.

There had been fears that the professional game may have been paused amid the latest stringent measures aimed at combating the coronavirus.

But the Premier League and EFL have been given the green light to continue.

It is understood that the Covid protocols now in place in elite sport, such as regular testing, have led the Government to allow it to keep going at professional levels.

Carlisle's promotion push in League Two can therefore carry on, with the table-topping Blues' next game this Saturday against Leyton Orient at Brunton Park (kick-off 1pm).

The match will be played behind closed doors.

A number of EFL games have been suspended recently after Covid-19 outbreaks. All clubs are undergoing a mandatory round of testing this week.

The government's detailed guidance on the new rules sets out that "elite sports persons" can still train and compete in indoor and outdoor facilities.

Grassroots and amateur sport, though, will halt, with indoor gyms and sports facilities to remain closed, likewise sports courts, outdoor gyms, golf courses, outdoor swimming pools, archery/driving/shooting ranges and riding arenas.

Organised outdoor sport for disabled people is allowed to continue.