Hartlepool United captain Ryan Donaldson discusses unprecedented time for football with the National League season suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak

The coronavirus outbreak has impacted everyone’s lives in recent weeks and football is certainly no different.

Concerns over the virus have seen the football calendar grind to a halt with many clubs shutting down and forcing players to train at home in line with government advice. Pools’ National League season may be on hold but the players are continuing to work through this unprecedented period.

“We’ve never had anything like this before, certainly not in my lifetime,” club captain Ryan Donaldson commented in his website column.

“It’s a worrying time for a lot of people. We’ve already seen plenty of stories about people losing their jobs or their businesses coming under strain.

“Now the schools are closing as well, which may put a bit of extra pressure on people so it’s all very concerning.

“I think you very quickly miss the routine when you’re not getting up and going to training – that’s what I’ve become used to in my life. I have spent a bit more time reading in the last few days and the dog has been walked a couple more miles as well.

“At the moment it’s a bit of novelty having more time at home – I am sure that will get harder the longer it goes on and develops.

“Football rightly takes a back seat at the current time and the number one priority is making sure that we all stay safe and look after our families.”