<
>

Coronavirus lockdown: Hastings United besieged by swarm of bees, Messi back in action

With almost all football postponed indefinitely because of the coronavirus pandemic, star players and clubs have found themselves at a loose end.

With many training grounds off-limits, clubs have sent footballers home, where they're adhering to an isolation period for the next few weeks. How are they passing the time?

ESPN is keeping a daily eye on what the world's best are up to, as well as how clubs are keeping busy by battling in online competitions against each other.

- Stream new episodes of ESPN FC Monday-Friday on ESPN+
- Stream every episode of 30 for 30: Soccer Stories on ESPN+

Hastings United

Hastings United were faced with the unenviable task of evicting a swarm of unwanted intruders from their ground before starting work relaying their pitch.

The non-league club had to remove a large swarm of bees that had taken up residence in their centre circle using nothing but the bravery of their ground staff and a wheelie bin.

Thankfully, groundsman Simon Rudkin was able to report on a job well done without suffering a single sting.

Certainly living up to their name of Ha-STINGS United!

Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi celebrated being able to return to training at Barcelona (while still observing social distancing requirements) with an action shot.

After individual sessions went ahead on Friday and Saturday, Barca took time to herald the big man's return after 56 long days apart.

Carles Puyol

Carles Puyol wished his old friend Luis Enrique a happy 50th birthday by sharing a throwback photo of when the Barca pair used to "play like superheroes."

Marcus Rashford

Marcus Rashford managed to get a good photo of his trophy cabinet without canine interference.

Jesse Lingard

Meanwhile, his Manchester United teammate Jesse Lingard went out of his way to wish his followers a "productive" weekend.

Joaquin

Real Betis legend Joaquin gave us all an insight into what his return to work was really like.

David Luiz

David Luiz tucked away a sweet, sweet volley as his backyard training sessions continued.

View this post on Instagram

@gu5santana treinador 💪🏻😂🤙🏻

A post shared by David Luiz (@davidluiz_4) on

Dani Alves

Continuing his theme for the week, Dani Alves enjoyed a little dance with his cheeky new simian friend.