Potter: Players remain in good spirits

Graham Potter says that his players remain in good spirits during the current coronavirus outbreak.

The head coach revealed that’d he’d been in contact with the group this week, with the first team squad still absent from training until at least the early part of May.   

He said, “I spoke to all of the players this week and generally their spirits are good. 

“They know the bigger picture, but like everyone else they want things to go back to normal when it’s safe for everyone. 

“They are intelligent enough to know we’re in a serious position as a society, but of course they’re frustrated and concerned like everyone is. 

“It’s been a challenge for all of us. Footballers are no different, they can’t do their jobs and they’re not sure when they’ll start again. But that’s the same for a lot of people.”

The boss was also asked about what working from home involved for him and his staff. 

He added, “I’ve been juggling work with the kids, preparing for the restart, communicating with staff and the players. 

“On a fundamental level my job has changed enormously. We can’t prepare the team for matches. But at the same time, you have to adapt and work in different ways and communicate with players and staff. 

“You can still do tactical meetings with the players in big and small groups, technology allows that now. 

“The players are well supported by our backroom staff on things like nutrition, and their programmes are varied. It’s about making sure they have the things they need. They’ve taken on all the advice have been doing the best they can.

“I’m really proud of the club and all the work they’ve been doing. As someone new to the city I’ve been really taken by how everyone taken on the challenge. 

“Everyone’s been amazing and is trying their best in a tragic situation and trying to pull together.”