Donegal boss concerned about possible coronavirus implications

By Frank Craig

Declan Bonner admits that coronavirus and the current uncertainty surrounding national and international sporting fixtures is a concern.

The Donegal boss and his players are currently planning for the visit of Tyrone to Ballybofey on Saturday night in what is a crucial NFL clash for both counties.

The Tir Chonaill manager is confident that game will go ahead. But he says there are no guarantees for anyone after that.

He said: “Every station you turn on it’s part of the conversation or it’s being spoken about. We can only deal with what is within our control.

“We’re training tonight and we’ll go again before the weekend to get ready for the match on Saturday.”

He added: “I think the weekend’s matches will be fine. But a lot depends on what happens over the next week. Cheltenham is on and there is a huge Irish contingent over there.

“It is what it is. From our point of view we can’t get too bogged down in it. We have to get ready for a match. We’ve two huge games in front of us with Kerry away the following week. That’s all we can look at.”

Matches in the top two soccer divisions in Spain and France are set to be played behind closed doors from this weekend on because of virus concerns. All sport in Italy has also been suspended because of the situation there.

Pressed on the possibly of the GAA championship having to be played out in empty stadiums, Bonner admitted nothing could be ruled out.

“Some soccer games are being played behind closed doors. I think Barcelona’s Champions League tie with Napoli will be in an empty Nou Camp.

“If it comes to that it comes to that. But without a doubt you want people watching your games. But all our plans are still geared towards May 17. That doesn’t change. No one knows what is going to happen over the next week, next fortnight or next month.

“There probably will come a time when some decisions might have to be made. Whether that’s a break after the league or whatever I’m not sure. We just don’t know.

“If the cases continue to multiply then who knows.”