Tim Krul remains sceptical about any plan to restart the Premier League in the near future, with the Dutch keeper keen to focus on bigger issues than football.
The 31-year-old has stated that City’s squad have been told that, as things currently stand, they are to report back for training in mid-May, with the intention of a restart in June.
Krul states that football falls secondary to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, but the shot-stopper does want to see the current season completed, when it is safe to do so.
“At the moment, it looks like we are going to train again on May 14. With the intention of restarting the competition from mid-June.
“So we actually have the summer break now. It is about resting, recovering and so we’re ready to go again soon. It is subject to change, because everything depends on government guidelines.
“Playing football in empty stadiums? Every player thinks that is dramatic, but if we have to, then we have to.
“Whether the Premier League can really continue, I am uncertain, but it is too early to rule it out.
“It seems impossible, but I hope so. These are the months in which the prizes are normally distributed. Here, you play football all year round. Norwich are in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup, we are one game away from Wembley.
“Yes, we are at the bottom. But we still have to compete against a few competitors and the difference is only six points. Anything could still happen. However, if there is a risk, however small, then we don’t want to play out.
“There are more important things; health. We are not going to risk lives.”
Health secretary Matt Hancock placed the spotlight on professional footballers over the weekend, claiming they should take a pay-cut in order to aid those less fortunate in the current crisis.
Krul has stated that footballers will do their bit to help, but admits he was taken aback by the comments made by the government.
“I have read the appeal of the health secretary. What people may not know: many footballers are already raising money to make a donation to the right authorities. Jordan Henderson is busy raising money.
“Players from all clubs contribute to this and the amount is entirely intended for the NHS. I think it is incredible that people try to force them.”
“Please let politicians make sure that there is enough material for the hospitals first! And that we can all be tested!
“That seems more important to me than requiring all Premier League players to hand in 30 percent of their salary,” Krul told Staat Voor Voetbal.
“The same goes any young football players, who still live at their parents house and don’t have a big contract at all, so he has to hand in thirty percent as well?
“Many boys are surprised. Let them lead by example. With players, it really comes from themselves.”
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