Former Newcastle United forward Ryan Donaldson lifts lid on National League conravirus lockdown at Hartlepool United

Former Newcastle United striker Ryan Donaldson should have been leading Hartlepool United out against Halifax Town this weekend – instead he’s stuck at home.

The cornavirus outbreak has seen the football calendar grind to a halt with many clubs shutting down and forcing players to train at home in line with government advice.

Ryan Donaldson of Hartlepool United prior to the Vanarama National League match between Sutton United and Hartlepool United at the Knights Community Stadium, Gander Green Lane,, Sutton on Saturday 14th March 2020. (Credit: Paul Paxford | MI News) | Other 3rd Party

placeholder image — Ryan Donaldson of Hartlepool United prior to the Vanarama National League match between Sutton United and Hartlepool United at the Knights Community Stadium, Gander Green Lane,, Sutton on Saturday 14th March 2020. (Credit: Paul Paxford | MI News) | Other 3rd Party

Donaldson, who made six first-team appearances for the Magpies between 2009 and 2010, has provided some insight into the situation from a non-league perspective.

“We’ve never had anything like this before, certainly not in my lifetime,” the Hartlepool captain commented in his website column.

Ryan Donaldson of Newcastle United battles for the ball with Charlie Barnett of Accrington Stanley during the Carling Cup 2nd Round match between Accrington Stanley and Newcastle United at the Crown Ground on August 25, 2010 in Accrington, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) | Other 3rd Party

“It’s a worrying time for a lot of people. We’ve already seen plenty of stories about people losing their jobs or their businesses coming under strain.

“Now the schools are closing as well, which may put a bit of extra pressure on people so it’s all very concerning.

“I think you very quickly miss the routine when you’re not getting up and going to training – that’s what I’ve become used to in my life. I have spent a bit more time reading in the last few days and the dog has been walked a couple more miles as well.

“At the moment it’s a bit of novelty having more time at home – I am sure that will get harder the longer it goes on and develops.

“Football rightly takes a back seat at the current time and the number one priority is making sure that we all stay safe and look after our families.”