As an enthusiastic football fan, it is almost certain you will feel the sheer boredom of having to sit for long hours in the coziness of one’s closet, without flipping through football channels on the TV set, or even catching a live game of one’s favourite team(s) strutting their stuff. Even more difficult as it is to believe, it is weekend!
And the reason for this is a widely known one. The trending Covid-19 virus has surely, caused more harm than good, and almost all of Europe’s league structures have decided to call off all of its footballing activities for the time being, as measures to fight the newest pandemic takes centerstage.
Today’s media reports had revealed however that the contingent that were the very first ones to have tested positive for the virus in football; the likes of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, Daniele Rugani of Juventus, Chelsea’s Callum Hudson-Odoi and Timo Hubers of Hannover 96 are on the way towards their full recovery from the ailment.
Yet, the government of a number of countries have already been forced to take strong restrictions on travels, stringent lock down and quarantine schedules for people coming from the affected countries, and more will follow suit.
Players, as well as the backroom staff have been forced into self-isolation in their homes and games are been rescheduled for later dates.
The Premier League’s Chief Executive, Richard Masters was quoted as saying towards the development: “Above all, we wish Mikel Arteta and Callum Hudson-Odoi speedy recoveries, and everyone else affected by COVID-19.”
“In this unprecedented situation, we are working closely with our clubs, Government, The FA and EFL and can reassure everyone the health and welfare of players, staff and supporters are our priority.”
And rightly so. Safety of course, should be the first thing in this case and despite the lacklustre nature it might have brought to our weekends, it is an applaudable move.
So while we’all wait for the return of our dear football, please let’s endeavor to always wash our hands, use hand sanitizers, wear face masks and of course avoid crowdy areas. Football is not dead, but precautionary measures simply have to be taken.
