Aaron Muirhead admits the coronavirus shutdown has put players’ careers in limbo.
The Ayr centre-half is one of many whose Somerset contracts expire this summer.
And with deals set to run out before football returns, the likes of Muirhead face an uncertain future.
He told the Ayrshire Post: “It’s a worrying time for us all, especially for the guys with kids, houses and mortgages.
“Usually I’d have the chance to play and earn myself a new deal at this time of the year.
“But that opportunity won’t be there now and it just leaves you hoping for the best.
“This is the downside to football but you just have to get on with it.
“The uncertainty is tough but I guess everyone is in the same boat right now.
“These are tough times but hopefully it works out all right.”
Muirhead, 29, admits that football going into cold storage has proved a unique challenge for the Ayr squad.
He added: “Some lads are climbing the wall with it.
“As players, you’re used to the daily routine and being around the dressing room.
“We stay in contact with each other but it’s not the same.
“The toughest part about staying fit is not having a target date for when we’re returning.
“When you go through close season, you always have that date in your mind for when football is back.
“This is a totally different situation because nobody knows when that will be.
“I’m just doing my runs and my sessions on YouTube to stop me from going mad.”
And Muirhead revealed he’s also turned to a career as a part-time schoolteacher to pass the time.
He laughed: “My eldest is eight and she’s keeping me really busy.
“Luckily her teacher sends lots of classwork over, so I try and make sure she gets it done.
“It’s keeping us on the go that’s for sure.”
