Salomon Kalou suspended for defying social distancing order

Ex-Chelsea star, Salomon Kalou, has been suspended by Hertha Berlin for defying the social distancing order after returning to training amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The Ivorian posted a Facebook video of himself shaking hands with team-mates and interrupting one player's medical checkup, actions the German Football League have branded "absolutely unacceptable".

In a statement, Hertha said: "Salomon Kalou was tempted by his negative test results to greet the other players in the dressing room, sometimes with a handshake, contrary to the clear announcements made by health authorities.

"With his 'Corona Song', Kalou gave the impression that he is not aware of the extent of the ongoing pandemic.

"With this video taken inside the team's dressing room, Kalou broke clear internal rules and displayed a behaviour, which is neither appropriate for this current situation, nor reflective of the code of conduct of Hertha BSC.

"The club has, therefore, made the decision to suspend the player in question from training and matches with immediate effect."

"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," Michael Preetz, Hertha's General Manager, added.

"The pictures of Salomon Kalou from the Hertha BSC dressing room are absolutely unacceptable", added a statement from the German Football League.

"There can be no tolerance for this - also with regard to players and clubs that adhere to the guidelines because they have grasped the seriousness of the situation."

Daily Star