Italian-based Perth footballer Lana Clelland has warned people in her home country not to underestimate the power of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Scotland striker, who scored in last summer’s World Cup finals, is over a week into lockdown in Florence.
Italy’s death-rate of over 3,000 has now overtaken China as the highest in the world, with no slow-down in sight and, according to Clelland, the healthcare system is “breaking right in front of my eyes”.
The last thing the 27-year-old Fiorentina player wants to see is Scottish people not treating COVID-19 seriously enough.
So the former Perth Grammar School pupil has posted a powerful message on social media.
It reads: “Over the last week, I’ve turned down a few interview requests about the current coronavirus situation, out of respect, and will continue to do so. But I would like to say the following.
“I’ve tried to stop myself from reading and replying to ridiculous comments online for the past week but it is frustrating me how daft and selfish some people are being in the midst of a worldwide pandemic.
“I’m currently on day eight of an official lockdown, with a strong health service breaking right in front of my eyes.
“In Italy, they have no hospital beds left and no ICUs (intensive care units).
“We don’t want to panic people but we also have to appreciate how serious this is and what could be on its way to the UK.
“I hope everyone in Scotland stays safe and continues to take on the advice of the NHS.
“Things I’ve done to pass the time in self isolation have been karaoke, dance routines, jigsaws and Skype workouts with my team-mates.
“So, keep active if you’re housebound. Keep supporting everyone, be kind and stay safe.”
