Hertha suspend Salomon Kalou with immediate effect
Salomon Kalou has been suspended by Hertha BSC.
Hertha BSC have suspended Salomon Kalou from training and matches with immediate effect after the striker posted a video that showed him break social distancing rules amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Kalou, who was seen shaking hands with teammates in the dressing room, has apologized for the Facebook video, which has now been deleted.
“I'm sorry if I gave the impression that I'm not taking coronavirus seriously. I want to apologise for this. The reality is the exact opposite, because I'm really worried about the people of Africa, because health systems aren't as good there as they are in Germany," the Ivorian striker said in a statement and added:
"I didn't really think it through and was excited that my tests came back negative. I would also like to apologise to all those who appeared in the video, who didn't know that I was broadcasting live and whom I didn't want to bring into this situation."
Hertha boss Michael Preetz said:
"With his video, Salomon Kalou has not only done a great deal of damage to Hertha BSC, but also created the impression that individual players are not taking the issue of coronavirus seriously, in a time of great discussion on the resumption of football and the role of the professional game.
"I would like to emphasise that we continue to notify all those involved of guidelines on hygiene and social distancing and make them aware of consequent compliance. We’re clearly following the requirements of the health authorities responsible for us, as well as the recommendations of the RKI. Hertha BSC deeply regret the behaviour of Salomon Kalou, especially since he is a player as decorated as he is experienced. However, the extent of this misconduct requires consequential action.”