The comments on social media replying to the news that the forward is worried about going back to training are disgraceful and completely miss the point.
Old Topic
There’s been a lot written about COVID-19 and football, especially regarding getting things underway, but the debate keeps on coming thick and fast and there’s no way to get around it.
Troy Deeney has spoken eloquently about his fears and he should be applauded for that. There’s too many media trained robots delivering dull and boring soundbytes but the Watford man isn’t one of these.
Makes Sense
His argument doesn’t really revolve around fears for his own health, rather for the health of those he lives with. Deeney’s five-month-old son has breathing difficulties, reported Sky Sports, and the man is scared about bringing something home and putting his child at risk.
How can you call him out for that?
Deeney has informed Watford that he won’t be returning to training, and it’s a decision that seems to have been well thought out - especially in light of the small outbreak of coronavirus that’s occurred at the club. Three members of the club have tested positive for the virus, and that gives Deeney’s comments a different perspective.
Can’t Argue
Those calling for him to be forced to return to the game because there are essential workers doing the same do not understand the argument. These men are not essential workers. This is a sport. They are entertainers.
Why should we put them, and specifically Deeney’s young son, at risk of a deadly and infectious virus for our own enjoyment? We shouldn’t.
And instead of hounding those who are brave enough to speak their mind, we should be encouraging them.