Kenny Jackett has told NHS workers he thinks they are doing great work - and has told his players they must make sure they keep themselves as fit as they can during their enforced time off from group training.

The Pompey boss said the work being done to help those suffering from coronavirus meant the frustrations of footballers paled into insignificance. But he is keeping in close contact with the squad - and reported that the five who were diagonsed with coronavirus were all making good recoveries.

Jackett told the club website: 'If we’re bored or kicking our heels a bit, then that’s nothing compared to those on the frontline who deserve our support and gratitude. But I think there’s a real community spirit there to rally around the key workers, like all those great people in the NHS.

'All of our players have got individual programmes and are given a fresh one by Jack Hughes (physio) and Jeff Lewis (head of sports science) every Monday. There’s a combination of long and short-distance running, as well as some stuff with a ball when possible.

'We also give them revised gym work and everyone has a smart watch, so we can track their training through that. Whether you’re a footballer or not, physical and mental fitness go hand-in-hand — that’s why the government have allowed people to go out and get some exercise. It’s so important.

'Our guys also have to take responsibility for themselves and be disciplined with things like their diet. They still need to live the life of an athlete because whenever we do get the nod to start up again — which is down to the powers that be — we need to be ready.'

Jackett said of the five players who tested positive for Covid-19: 'They’re all fine and nobody has any symptoms, but are following the instructions to self-isolate. When that’s over with they’ll want to get outside and have a bit of fresh air, while returning to some form of training.'

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