“My mind’s on other things.” Stoke City manager on social distancing in football

Stoke manager Michael O’Neill has spoken about the difficulties of controlling the social-distancing behaviour of his players and staff, particularly in the wake of widespread criticism of footballer’s recent celebration antics. Listen here:

Questioned at the pre-match press-conference by Moorlands Radio’s Dave Lee, the Stoke manager claimed, “I don’t remember hugging any of the other managers, to be honest”. He went on to say, “I’ve fist-bumped, which I think is permitted.”

However, he played down the media furore on the subject saying, “I think a lot has been made of this, this week in particular….It’s more difficult to control the actions of the players on the pitch.”

But when asked about players’ behaviour immediately after the final whistle is blown – with opposing players fist-bumping, high-fiving, slapping sweaty backs and embracing one another – Michael O’Neill was less clear. “After the game, I’ll be honest, my mind’s on other things. Possibly, we need new directives from the EFL in terms of what’s permitted and what’s not permitted.”

 

Dave Lee
Dave Lee
Sports Reporter - Stoke City

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