Declan Devine has called on the people of Derry to rally behind each other in these extraordinary times.
The Derry City manager today issued a message to the club’s supporters urging them to mind themselves.
He told the club website: “I want to wish everyone well in these very testing times.
“The management and medical teams are in daily contact with players and backroom staff, preparing for the day when we can go back to a more regular routine.
“Players from outside of the city have been able to return home while the league suspension remains in place.
“They will however continue to train under the remote supervision of our coaching and fitness teams.”
“I would like to thank our Chairman, Board of Directors and office staff who are continuing to run the club on a daily basis, despite the obvious difficulties.”
It is hoped that League of Ireland football will resume on June 19 but even that could be wishful thinking.
Nobody can predict when normal life will resume and the FAI will continue to take its lead from the Department of Health.
Devine continued: “The important thing for now is to ensure that we all follow the medical guidance on getting through this virus.
“Derry has always been a city where people look after each other and now, more than ever it is vital that we do so.
“This football club belongs to the whole city. It has come through huge challenges before and it will come through this one.
“Our club has a lot of supporters who work in what is being referred to as ‘essential business’ and we are all extremely grateful to them.
“Those who are on the front line of this battle - our medical people - are providing an invaluable service and we’ll find our own way to thank them publicly when this is over.
“Please stay safe and every one of us at this football club is looking forward to getting back to representing our city on the pitch in the not too distant future.”
