'It’s not been normal in training,' Brighton striker Neal Maupay insists it's right to suspend Premier League

Brighton and Hove Albion's leading scorer Neal Maupay fully understands the decision to put the season on hold because of coronavirus.
Brighton and Hove Albion striker Neal MaupayBrighton and Hove Albion striker Neal Maupay
Brighton and Hove Albion striker Neal Maupay

Albion were due to face Arsenal today but the match was postponed on Thursday night after it emerged Gunners' manager Mikel Arteta contracted the virus. A number of their players are also in self-isolation.

The Premier League then announced on Friday all fixtures had been suspended until April 4. Brighton's next scheduled match is against Manchester United on 4th April at the Amex - but even that must be in serious doubt at this stage.

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Graham Potter's squad, who are just two points above the relegation zone, had prepared fully for the crucial Arsenal match but Maupay admitted even training didn't feel right.

“It’s not been normal in training," said the Frenchman. "We’re all aware of the situation. There is contact in football but we try not to stay too close or shake hands as well as washing our hands regularly and not touching our face.

“But on the pitch there is [physical] contact so it is a bit more difficult. We have to get on with the situation until we are told something different.

“Like everyone we have been following the news and the advice we are given. We are aware of the situation and health is more important than football.

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Maupay has enjoyed a decent first season with Brighton in the Premier League following his £16m arrival from Championship outfit Brentford. The striker have eight goals to his name and is determined to add more to his tally if or when the season resumes.

He said, “Personally, I believe in myself, I know I am doing the right things in training so I can be good in games.

"And the team improves, which I am sure will happen, I think I can get even better.”