Republic of Ireland boss isolating as neighbours tested positive for coronavirus

Terrified Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy has been made to go into full isolation after his close neighbours tested positive for coronavirus.

The sporting landscape has changed drastically in the last month and, now during a week when he should have been leading on international duty, McCarthy is trying to keep at bay the threat of the rapidly spreading virus.

Speaking from the confines of his own room, McCarthy chose to put out a statement to all Irish fans, which was shared on the social media channels of the national team.

'I should have been on the training ground at Abbotstown with the players today, getting ready for Slovakia and working on shapes and game plans,' McCarthy said.

'Instead, I am back home in Bromley and isolating as two of our near neighbours have been diagnosed with coronavirus and it is now very real and very frightening for us.

'Like so many others, we are trying so hard to play by the rules here and stay at home. My wife Fiona and I are not seeing our children or our grandchildren and it's tough.'

Following Prime Minster Boris Johnson's Monday night speech is which he outlined the plans of a lockdown situation, McCarthy has urged everybody to take government advice on board and adhere to all emergency rules.

'We are doing what the authorities are telling us and that is the message I want to send to everyone in Ireland today. Let's do as we are told - let's ensure we listen to the guidelines so that we don't end up like Italy,' he added.

'We cannot take a chance with this. When the government say don't congregate in numbers, then please listen to them. When they tell you that it is better to stay at home, listen.'