Let’s all unite and beat this virus together: O’neill
NORTHERN Ireland boss Michael O’neill has called on the Green and White Army and wider community to unite and defeat the coronavirus.
The global pandemic has brought all sport to a halt and kicked into touch the Euro 2020 play-off semi-final with Bosnia-herzegovina which was due to be played last night. That match has been pushed back to June 4, subject to a review, while the finals will now take place in 2021. The winners will host the victors from the Slovakia v Republic of Ireland play-off to decide who will reach the tournament.
But as the coronavirus pandemic continues to claim lives, there is no firm indication when football will return and all energies are being invested into the fight against this life destroying virus. In an open letter to supporters, O’neill said: “We can help to keep our loved ones safe by working together in tackling the spread of Covid-19 and following the guidelines issued by the Government and the health authorities. It is in everyone’s best interests to do so.”
He added: “While both the squad and myself are disappointed not to be in action today, with the opportunity to play the Path B final back in Belfast next week against either Slovakia or Republic of Ireland, we are all conscious of the fact we are in the midst of a global crisis.
“Football players, managers and coaches are not immune to the potential effects of this deadly virus. We have family members and friends who are classed as vulnerable. We care for them deeply and don’t want them to come to any harm.”
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O’neill took over as Stoke City boss in November but it was agreed he would stay on as Northern Ireland manager for the Euro play-off match.
The former Shamrock Rovers chief hopes to remain in the international hotseat for the June play-off but if the match is postponed again, the Irish FA may havetostepuptheirsearchfora new manager.
O’neill previously stated continuing his time with Northern Ireland “wouldn’t be doable” if the play-offs were moved to autumn or beyond. But the 50-yearold isn’t thinking about his managerial future at the moment.
He added: “The match against Bosnia and Herzegovina has been rescheduled for June. It may or may not take place then.
“I am sure that when it eventually does go ahead we will be able to count on your support as we once again strive to qualify for a major tournament.
“In the meantime, though, we all need each other’s help and support. Please keep in touch with friends and family by using remote technology such as phone, internet and social media. Stay at home if you can. If you do have to go outside please ensure it is only to get food or that it’s for health reasons or essential work.
“And if you go outside to exercise — once a day is permitted — then make sure you observe the rules by staying two metres (six feet) away from other people. And don’t forget to wash your hands as soon as you get home.
“If we all follow the rules then hopefully it won’t be too long before you, the GAWA, get to sing your hearts out again. I very much look forward to that day.”
Skipper Steven Davis, meanwhile, says the chance to beat the caps record held by Pat Jennings is motivating him to stay at the top of his game.
The Rangers midfielder (above) has made 117 international appearances, two short of the legendary stopper.
The 35-year-old also hopes to lead his country to the delayed Euro 2020 finals — and to feature in the next World Cup qualifying campaign.
“Pulling on the green jersey is still something I cherish,” Davis told the BBC.
“It would be a great achievement for me personally. To equal or get past Pat would be special. I am trying to not think too much about it but, as it inches closer, it is on my mind.
“However, you are always only one injury away or something happening like lack of form, so you may not get the opportunity to do that. I will just concentrate on keeping myself as fit as possible and hopefully I can do that.”