Russell Martin believes it’s important to keep everything in perspective during the lockdown period.
The country has been staying at home for over a month in order to protect the NHS and save lives during the Coronavirus pandemic. That, of course, means that no football has taken place in the UK since then, and it remains to be seen when the 2019/20 season will resume – if at all.
While eager to get back to work as soon as possible, boss Martin knows there are more important things to players, staff and supporters to worry about and is therefore keen to keep perspective too.
“There are things that are more important than football so we have to put everything into perspective,” Martin said during a recent Q&A with MKFM. “I’ve said it before but of the things in life that aren’t important, football is the most important.
“While it would have been great if we could have been able to continue playing, because I felt we were in a good place, we fully understand why we aren’t.
“We don’t know when we’ll be able to get back to training and back playing football again. There is a lack of certainty with regards to everything at the moment and that’s certainly made me feel anxious at times. I’m sure that’s the same for everyone.
“We just have to help each other through and wait until we do get some clarification on what happens next. It’s up to me as a manager to ensure that we are prepared for any scenario. We’re trying to do that now.
“We’ve plotted and planned how we’re going to move forward. I’ve certainly looked to use the time we’ve been given to make sure we’re better and more refined when we get back to work.
“We’ve had a chance to reflect and analyse on what we’ve done – what’s worked and what’s not. It’s time that we wouldn’t have had otherwise so hopefully we can find a way to benefit from this situation.”
He continued: “My kids have certainly been keeping me busy too! I’ve tried to enjoy spending time with the family as much as possible.
“I’ve been used to structure and routine for the past 20 years so I’ve tried to maintain that where I can. We’ve stressed that to the player as well, as it’s important.”
“I’ve been trying to stay in touch with the players and staff as much as I can, and making sure everyone is okay. Footballers are real creatures of habit so to lose that is a difficult thing to deal with.”
