Katsina Utd’s Aliko ready for post-COVID-19 football

Katsina United goalkeeper, Mustapha Aliko has averred that Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) players will not be scared to return to the field of play after the coronavirus crisis.

The novel coronavirus has caused the domestic league and other football activities to be suspended indefinitely by the football governing body, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Aliko said himself and colleagues are core professionals and will duly comply with laid down rules and regulations of the health body, World Health Organisation (WHO) in carrying out post-COVID-19 activities.

“There will not be any fear among us returning to the pitch once the coronavirus pandemic is over.

“Of course, the WHO will issue guidelines on what the players and fans are expected to do on the pitch after the COVID-19 crisis.

“Fifa, Caf and NFF will equally come out with directives, rules and regulations, ours is to abide and obey the rules.

“We are core professionals, we sleep, wakeup and eat football, it’s part and parcel of our lives.

“So we are professionals and will not be scared returning to the pitch after the coronavirus pandemic,” said the former Niger Tornadoes shot stopper.

Aliko however will want his colleagues to continue to observe all the COVID-19 health measures put in place by the health personnel.

“My candid advice and message to my colleague is to continue staying at home, stay safe, maintain physical and social distancing as well as abide by the rules and regulation of the health officers,” said Aliko.

Aliko said his team will still achieve their season’s target despite the scourge of COVID-19 crisis.

“Katsina United have close to 80% new players and we were beginning to understand ourselves before the COVID-19 crisis.

“COVID-19 crisis will surely affect us because it will be like starting all over again but I’m sure we will go ahead to achieve our target.

“Right now we are staying indoors doing mere routine exercise and training which will not be same as full scale training and competitive matches,” said the experienced Katsina United goaltender.

Katsina United are 10th on the 20-team top-flight on 34 points 15 behind league leaders, Plateau United with a game at hand.