Former Nigeria’s Super Eagles striker, Odion Ighalo has issued a heartening message of hope to football fans everywhere saying ‘we will beat coronavirus and be united again’.
The frightening spread of the deadly Covid-19 bug prompted the suspension of English football until at least April 30.
The FA, Premier League and EFL are all desperate to finish the current season — but only when “it is safe and possible to do so”.
Clubs are closed, players are in lockdown at home and there are fears this season may still end up becoming null and void.
However, Manchester United loan striker Ighalo is positive the grave health crisis will be overcome and fans allowed back inside stadiums to cheer on their heroes once again.
The Nigerian, 30, said: “Of course I miss football, like other players and fans. But lives matter.
“Staying safe and alive is our biggest game in the world now — and we all have a role to play in it.
“Football has to take a back seat all over the planet at the moment and that is very understandable.
“Coronavirus is affecting all countries, across all continents. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this pandemic and to the families who have lost loved ones.
“But I know we will beat coronavirus and I urge people to remain positive.”
All games in the Premier League, EFL, Women’s Super League and Women’s Championship are currently postponed — as is every fixture in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The FA has also agreed the current season — due to end on June 1 — can be “extended indefinitely” as football tries to come to terms with the pandemic.
Prime Minister, Boris Johnson insists the UK can “turn the tide” on coronavirus in 12 weeks.
And devout Christian Ighalo said: “We all celebrate together when a goal is scored in football and we can all share in the optimism that we will soon celebrate the end of Covid-19.
“Very soon we will all be together to do the things that unite us in this beautiful game. This tough time will pass and light will shine upon us all again — to share in the love and happiness football brings.”
There have been almost 250,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus worldwide, with more than 10,000 deaths.
In the UK, almost 180 people had died from almost 4,000 cases by last night.
The ex-Watford striker, who has been a hit at Old Trafford with four goals in eight appearances, added: “We are all working individually away from the training ground and staying fit at home.
“Most importantly, let’s stay safe. If we all follow the hygiene procedures we shall win this fight against Covid-19.”
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
