Alanyaspor defender on Turkish football, how he stays out of ‘a dark place’ and what the world can learn from coronavirus crisis. I scored the winner and that i didn’t even celebrate,” Steven Caulker says of his goal in Alanyaspor’s behind-closed-doors victory over Gaziantep. it had been one among the ultimate games before the Super Lig was suspended in Turkey, one among the last countries to require the choice amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Atmospheres in Turkey are known for being boisterous and vociferous, and therefore the absence of supporters was a reminder of what makes football the sport it’s . With and without fans it’s been a successful season for Alanyaspor, who sit sixth within the table and lead their cup semi-final against Antalyaspor 1-0 heading into the second leg reception . The club has never won major honours in its 72-year history. agen sbobet maxbetsbobet
“We tried it one week here without fans and it wasn’t good,” says Caulker, who joined Alanyaspor in January 2019. “It wasn’t enjoyable. It made me appreciate more playing ahead of fans hebdomadally , especially once you attend the large Istanbul clubs. I even have never experienced an environment like those in Istanbul, even within the Premier League. The atmospheres are really special and without that, what’s football? it’s really hostile at these grounds but i really like it.
at’s what I play football for, it gives you a true buzz. i’m glad they stopped the league as without the fans it’s not an equivalent .”
Although lifting a trophy remains a part of the thinking for all involved at Alanyaspor, the players and staff haven’t lost perspective. The league’s authorities were criticised for delaying the postponement of fixtures and nobody knows when matches will restart. Players have returned to training to take care of fitness but are permitted to figure only in pairs, with four allowed on site at any time. faraway from football, social distancing is being maintained.
“We’re all being sensible about it, within the sense that the priority of everyone at the club is our health: the health of our families, the health of our supporters and therefore the people of the town . Yes, it’s frustrating, but there are definitely bigger things at stake. We’re just trying to try to to our bit by staying reception the maximum amount as possible.
“Alanya may be a coastal city, it’s about 25 degrees immediately and it’s got the beach. It relies on tourism but the place is empty as tourists can’t get into the country, therefore the restaurants are closed and only offering home delivery; the cafes are closed. It’s not a lockdown but they’re strongly advising people to remain home and to not leave unless it’s absolutely necessary.”
As a player, Caulker is understood for his calm demeanour and he’s maintaining such an outlook off the pitch. However, the previous Tottenham and Queens Park Rangers defender’s son and fogeys are in England, keeping him aside from his loved ones. “My family are back home, which I do find really tough.
