Kaizer Chiefs left back Happy Mashiane was relishing the chance to participate in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics but his dream was put on hold due to the global coronavirus pandemic.

The 22-year-old formed part of David Notoane’s U23 squad, who qualified for the Olympics after South Africa finished in the top three of the Caf U23 Cup of Nations held in Egypt in November.

The International Olympic Committee and the Tokyo 2020 organizing committee released a joint statement following the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics due to Covid-19 that has virtually brought the world to a standstill.

However, Mashiane responded to the rescheduling of games and supports the decision to postpone the Olympics.

‘Covid-19 is a serious concern to the world,’ Mashiane told his club’s official website.

‘I wish that the solution that will stop the spread of the disease could be found as quickly as possible because this can cause much damage to all of us. I was looking forward to the 2020 Olympics, but now what matters is getting over the pandemic.

He added: ‘Hearing such news at first was sad. However, after clearly getting detailed information about the global disaster really changed my perspective. I realised it is better to be safe than sorry. We’d rather all be safe from illness so that we can be fit to play in the future.

‘It appears that the solution for now is social distancing and being hygienic at all times. We need to support the government’s efforts in fighting the disease. If you don’t do this then the virus will spread rapidly. I wish to thank the State President for implementing the 21-day lockdown measures. I just hope everyone will adhere to this so that we are all safe.

‘Firstly, in the morning I go through my prescribed workout plan. I sanitise as much as possible throughout the day. I spend some of my time reading articles and guidelines regarding prevention and symptoms of this epidemic,’ he concluded.