Irish League club Warrenpoint Town have sent their best wishes to former player Lee Duffy after he revealed he tested positive for Covid-19.
Duffy says he spent eight days in hospital and was unable to breathe on his own.
The 28-year-old striker - whose previous clubs also include Newry City - warned people of the dangers of coronavirus.
He said on Twitter: "As some of you may or may not know, I tested positive for Covid-19 two weeks ago.
"I spent 8 days in hospital hooked up to oxygen as I could no longer breathe on my own, scared not knowing what was going to happen.
"Luckily I got through it and I’m starting to feel a lot better now."
He added: "My advice to everybody is to not take this lightly, it is very serious."
Duffy spent the second half of last season with Warrenpoint Town.
The Milltown club said on Facebook: "Our former player Lee Duffy has spoken out about his Covid-19 virus and thankfully is on the mend. Lee is a young very fit 28 year old.
"Please take this virus seriously. It attacks all ages
"Lee is in our thoughts and we pray for his continued recovery."
A number of Irish League footballers voiced their support for Duffy on Twitter.
Former LInfield captain Michael Gault said: "Sounds horrific. Hope you are on the mend and feeling better."
Glentoran midfielder Ciaran O'Connor added: "Good to hear your doing well brother."
Warrenpoint chairman Connaire McGreevy said: "Lee you are in my prayers for a full recovery."
And former Glenavon player Eoin Wearen said: "Delighted to hear your're on the mend mate."
Darren Guy, Ulster Unionist councillor for Waterside, Londonderry, said Duffy's story was a warning to anyone who wasn't taking Covid-19 seriously.
He tweeted: "Good to see Lee on the mend but a warning to all who think this is all a big joke. Lee Duffy was a fit footballer.
"This can effect anyone, any where, any age, at any level of health. Self isolate if possible! Parents please get this message to your kids."
