Solskjaer says football has duty to carry despite sharp rise in Covid-19 cases

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes football has a duty to carry on during the lockdown – for the mental well-being of the nation.

Several players and managers have called for football to be suspended while the rest of the country remains under lockdown to combat the rising spread of Covid-19.

But Solskjaer believes football is providing a much-needed relief for the well-being of the population during lockdown and said it is important for the game to carry on.

"First of all, you're worried about what's happening in society and the country, it's a big thing," said Solskajer.

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"I personally feel safe within our bubble, we've taken all the steps we've had to follow protocols and guidelines, the players have been following as well as we can.

"What's happening outside is frightening and we have a responsibility and duty to steer clear and keep within the bubbles.

"I hope we can continue playing, because it's a positive impact for anyone.

"I feel that at home myself, when you don't have a game yourself, you're looking forward to watching a game on the telly and the mental well-being of football has been a big positive, I think."

United's new signing Facundo Pellestri tested positive for coronavirus, but Solskjaer said he and his squad – who face Watford in the FA Cup tomorrow – had managed to follow the safety protocols and avoid an outbreak of positive cases, unlike other clubs.

"Well, I think we've done well to follow the protocols as we have," said Solskajer. "We've had the odd case and Facundo got a positive test. He reported that on his Twitter account.

"We don't normally comment on who they are, but Facundo is well and hopefully he'll be back with us soon. He's been with the reserves and 23s and wasn't really in our group over Christmas. Apart from that, we have a full and fit squad."

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