Portsmouth FC star reveals he has been forced to cancel his wedding in Italy amid coronavirus fears

The 26-year-old was due to tie the knot on May 28 but has been forced to shelves those plans after Italy went into lockdown as the virus wreaks mayhem across the country.

The winger admitted he is ‘frustrated’ at the turn of events but said he could not risk the health of friends and family – many of whom were planning on travelling from his native Australia.

He said: ‘It is frustrating. The missus is not very happy about it but we couldn’t put any of our guests at risk, especially with northern Italy being a hot spot (of coronavirus).

‘It’s annoying but all we can do is wait and see what happens with it,’ he said. ‘We will have to reschedule the wedding.’

As coronavirus fears grip the sporting world – with the English league now suspended until April 4 – the Australian international said he thought playing behind closed doors was a bad idea.

‘I don’t think we should play behind closed doors,’ he said. ‘We are privileged to play in front of our amazing fans – they are our 12th man.

‘Our home support is incredible. We’ve nearly scored in the second half of every game when we’re playing towards the Fratton End so it would be a big loss to us to play behind closed doors.

‘I think they should just stop all games.’

He added: ‘I feel sorry for the kids and mascots as we weren’t able to shake their hands. But we understand that health is the most important thing and has to come first.’

SEE ALSO: Fareham College staff member being treated for coronavirus

Williams also said he was disappointed to see Australia’s World Cup qualifiers in March and June against Kuwait, Nepal, Taiwan and Jordan postponed due to coronavirus fears.

He said: ‘It’s a big shame the games have been cancelled especially the game in March which was meant to be played in my hometown Perth.

‘If selected, it would have been great to play there and have my family at the game. It’s a shame for the fans but safety is the most important thing.’

Meanwhile, Pompey’s League One home game with Accrington has been postponed, and the Blues’ playing squad and staff are to undergo tests for coronavirus following the latest developments to hit football.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has tested positive for the virus, and came into contact with Kenny Jackett and his players on March 2, when the Gunners visited Fratton Park in the FA Cup.

Pompey’s players this morning turned up for training as usual.

However, following recent developments, it was decided to scrap training and send players and staff home before 10am.

In addition, Pompey are awaiting the delivery of coronavirus kits for testing, which is expected to take place among its employees on Monday or Tuesday.

SEE ALSO: Gosport schoolchildren could start studying at home amid coronavirus outbreak

Speaking of Pompey’s chances of securing promotion, Williams admitted the club are still in a good position but need to improve their away form.

He said: ‘We’ve still got a good chance. We just need to make sure we get into the top two.

‘The last few away games have not been great. We have not passed well enough, created enough chances or defended well enough.

‘We’ve been too open. We need to be more solid.’

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But.similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Should I avoid public places?

Most people who feel well can continue to go to work, school and public places and should only stay at home and self isolate if advised by a medical professional or the coronavirus service.

What should I do if I feel unwell?

Don’t go to your GP but instead call NHS 111 or look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next.

When to call NHS 111

NHS 111 should be used if you feel unwell with coronavirus symptoms, have been in a country with a high risk of coronavirus in the last 14 days or if you have been in close contact with someone with the virus.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS