Health always comes first: Axel Witsel expresses concerns over coronavirus

Borussia Dortmund's Axel Witsel expressed concerns over the coronavirus threat saying that 'health always comes first' and football will be back when the 'time is right'.

Witsel took to Twitter to write, "Stay safe everyone and take care of those close to you at this time. Health always comes first in this moment, football will be back when the time is right."

Earlier on Saturday, Barcelona's Lionel Messi said he is 'worried' over the current situation caused by the COVID-19 and urged people 'to be responsible and stay at home'.

"These are difficult days for everyone. We are worried about what is happening and we want to help, putting ourselves in the position of those who suffering the most, either because they are affected directly or their family or friends are, or because they are working on the front line in the fight in hospitals and health centres," Messi posted the message on Instagram in Spanish.

"I want to send them all my support. Health has to come first. It is an exceptional moment and we have to follow all the recommendations from the health authorities and public authorities. That is the only way that we can fight it effectively. It is time to be responsible and stay at home," the message added.

The virus, which originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan in December, last year, has spread to more than 100 countries across the world, infecting over 1,20,000 people.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.