The coach of the Greece national football team, John van’t Schip, sent a message to fans via the Hellenic Federation’s online channel. The Dutch manager shared his feelings of gratitude to Greeks for their restraint and discipline during coronavirus restrictions.

He also made an appeal for everyone to remain on the same track of discipline during the Easter holidays and ended his speech saying: “When life goes back to its regular rhythm, as we all hope, let us not forget that we are all part of a greater whole. And that football is simply a game, a beautiful game, a great game that gives joy and brings people together.”

Mr van’t Schip’s entire speech was as follows:

“Good evening to all. I would like to express my feelings of compassion towards the entire world, during these very difficult times.

And mainly to the health care workers of our society. Health is the most important thing in this life. During this crisis, there are no winners or losers, as there are in football.

We are all together, united. Of course, football has taken a back seat at the moment. As manager of the (Greek) national team, I stand with you all and I remain in Greece with my wife.

Something for which we are both grateful. I admire the way the Greeks are handling this crisis and how they are going on with their lives. These restrictions are accompanied by very specific rules and people abide by them with all good will.

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At least in my neighbourhood that’s what I see. I use the transfer ‘6’ to get out every day, go out running, exercise and I suggest to everyone that can do the same, to do so.

I realise that in the next few days is the celebration of the Greek Easter, the greatest celebration that I have heard about and unfortunately we are in this situation that I won’t be able to witness how it is celebrated under normal circumstances but it is important to show discipline and remain at home, alongside our our families and live out this Greek Easter in a different way than we normally would.

Because now, more than ever, it is important to follow the rules set by the Hellenic Government.

Which is why I recommend you remain at home, you stay united, you protect each other and within a safe environment, you have a great Easter.

And after all that, once life resumes its regular daily rhythm, as we all hope, let us not forget that we are all part of a greater whole.

And that football is a game, a wonderful game that brings joy and unites people. Christos Anesti.

As you can see, I am also practising for the Greek Easter!”