With Covid-19 pandemic raging around the world, sport in Serbia had to be halted. It's a tough time for everyone, but it's a time when people have to show solidarity. Our young midfielder Veljko Nikolić spoke about what it's like in Zvezda camp these days.
"It's hard having to miss training sessions and games, but sometimes football has to take the back seat. Health is essential and it's all we need to focus now. When the pandemic is over, we will return and hopefully we'll be able to enjoy football again."
Dejan Stanković's team started well after the winter break, so the red and whites will be frustrated with the championship suspended.
"We played well and started to click under the new boss, but we have to battle this invisible opponent now. It's difficult for all the people, not just us and not just athletes. We're in it together. In the meantime, it means a lot to me personally that the coach and his staff have showed faith in me. I can't wait to get back out on the pitch and repay them."
All the players have received a fitness regime plan they will work under at home and Nikolić says he and his team-mates will remain professional even in this difficult cirumstances.
"Fitness coaches have given us assignments we will have to accomplish at home. We work every day to stay as fit as possible. I've made a mini-gym in my apartment to keep myself busy. It's not ideal, of course, having to work alone and not training with the lads, but right now public health has to be preserved. Football isn't going anywhere - it will be there when all this is over."
Veljko is trying to be careful and responsible according to the doctors' recommedations.
"Yes, I'm being careful as much as I can. I'm keeping myself busy with books and games, but I'm also improving my cooking skills! Every day I get groceries for some of my older neighbors, so it's good to help people who need it. We will get though this!"