Preston North End midfielder not surprised by the length of football's enforced break

Preston North End midfielder Alan Browne has not been surprised by the length of football’s suspension during the Covid-19 pandemic.
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The Lilywhites have not played for more than two months and group training was halted in mid March.

With a return to training on the cards this weekend, there are signs that football is looking to get itself going again, although things will be very different to how they were before the lockdown.

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Browne told the Lancashire Post: “When the Luton game got called off back in March, I actually thought it might be quite a while before we played again.

Preston North End midfielder Alan Browne in action against Manchester City in the Carabao Cup earlier this seasonPreston North End midfielder Alan Browne in action against Manchester City in the Carabao Cup earlier this season
Preston North End midfielder Alan Browne in action against Manchester City in the Carabao Cup earlier this season

“Things were going to get worse and worse before it started to get better.

“Maybe people didn’t take it too seriously to start with but that then changed.

“For us, it’s been a case of getting on with the fitness work at home and waiting to see what happens.”

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In between the gym work and running, Browne has had the time to develop his skills as a dad.

PNE midfielder Alan Browne celebrates scoring against Stoke in FebruaryPNE midfielder Alan Browne celebrates scoring against Stoke in February
PNE midfielder Alan Browne celebrates scoring against Stoke in February

His son Hugo was born at the end of January and the lockdown has provided plenty of bonding time.

Browne said: “I’ve been able to spend a lot more time with the baby, which is really special for me.

“He just drinks and sleeps which is a good life!

“You see changes in him every day and that is something I treasure.

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“I think I’ve been doing all right to be fair, you just take it on board as you go along.

“I wasn’t sure how I would get used to all the new things but it sort of comes to you.

“I didn’t learn anything from anyone as such, it happens and you get used to it – I’m enjoying it.

“My new favourite show is Peppa Pig, watching it with him.

“I think I’ve seen every episode now. My favourite character is probably the rabbit, she pops up everywhere!”

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When the PNE squad do get back together, there could be a few players giving Ben Pearson a run for his money in terms of hairstyles.

The wild look sported by midfielder Pearson could be matched by those who haven’t resorted to the clippers.

Browne wasn’t planning a DIY haircut while the barbers and hairdressers stay shut.

“I’m all right, it doesn’t really bother me and I’ll let it grow,” said the 25-year-old.

“If it gets to the point where it bothers me I will let the missus cut it. She’s been on YouTube watching videos, she’s desperate to cut it!”