Despite the horrifying death toll from the coronavirus that has put parts of Europe on lock down, former Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has expressed that he is more fearful of the financial consequences than the public health crisis caused by the pandemic.

Germany has so far been one of the worst affected nations in Europe, with more than 8,000 cases and 20 deaths, and is looking at enforcing lock down measure similar to those already taken in Italy, Spain and France.

However, former German international Lehman, who now works as a TV pundit, has caused outrage among some twitter users for suggesting that the quarantine measures, which have been put in place in France, Italy and Spain to save lives and ease pressure on medical services already under massive strain, may not be worth it due to the huge economic impact they will have.

His message comes as many professional footballers, football clubs, and other famous sporting personalities have taken to Twitter to urge people to stay at home during the ongoing coronavirus crisis, including Real Madrid.

Lehman's comments on coronavirus

“Is it better staying home, being quarantined against (something) we couldn’t measure in previous years, loosing (sic) the job now or the existence of a successful business? Will there be more people getting sick because of huge financial problems than through the virus? Who can answer that?” tweeted the former Schalke 04 shot stopper.

Sport in Germany is already on lockdown, with the Bundesliga having announced the suspension of fixtures until at least April 2. However, it is likely the period of suspension will have to be extended, as it will across all of Europe’s top five leagues.