Naismith: Shutdown better than closed-door games

Hearts striker Steven Naismith insists a complete football shutdown is better than playing behind closed doors.

The Scotland international was not surprised that the Scottish FA and SPFL yesterday temporarily pulled the curtain down on the domestic game as the UK tries to bring the spread of coronavirus under control.

There had been suggestions that games could be played in front of soulless empty stadia but the former Rangers, Everton and Norwich City marksman insists the footballing authorities have made the right call.

He said: “When it’s on your actual doorstep and it’s getting to the point where this virus is that deadly then it puts things into a more clear perspective and that is that health and safety is paramount.

“We can play football when everybody’s moved on beyond this virus and get back to enjoying that.”

“It’s not right not have fans there cheering on their team. Going further down, fans have paid their money so there’s the whole financial aspect of it.”

Naismith insists the players are in the dark as much as the supporters when it comes to what the future holds for the rest of the season.

He added: “We don’t know what is going to happen next. These conversations will have been going on for days and there will be a process that we now follow.

“At the moment, in general, everybody’s personal agendas have to be put aside for what’s best for the whole country and the whole world in this pandemic.”