Footballers breaching coronavirus protocols to celebrate goals are ‘brainless’

Manchester City players celebrate Phil Foden’s goal against Brighton on Wednesday night, despite warnings for players to avoid hugging (Laurence Griffiths/PA)

Footballers who continue to breach coronavirus protocols by hugging and kissing to celebrate goals are “brainless”, according to the chair of the key parliamentary sports committee.

Manchester City and Fulham players crowded together after scoring in their respective matches on Wednesday night, in spite of reminders from the Premier League to strictly observe protocols on the avoidance of unnecessary contact amid a worsening of the pandemic.