'I struggled to breathe': Josh Magennis reveals covid fight
Northern Ireland star Josh Magennis has revealed his shock battle with coronavirus.
The striker tested positive before Christmas and said he was struggling to breathe.
Magennis who suffers from asthma said he had to endure 30-minute coughing fits during what was an extremely worrying period.
The 30-year-old told Sky Sports that fit and healthy sports professionals were not exempt from the effects of coronavirus.
And he added: "With the job I have I always thought I would shake it off if I did get it.
"It hit me far harder than that, unfortunately.
"During the worst three days, I would have 30-minute coughing fits when I woke up. Taking a deep breath for my inhaler I felt my lungs wouldn't open.
"I phoned the doctor and told him I'm properly struggling here. I'm struggling to breathe. We had a serious conversation about whether I should go to the emergency unit because of the asthma. I didn't want to go because I didn't want to take up resources and thankfully it improved the next day."
"It's like Russian roulette with this virus. You don't really know how you will react to it.
"My advice is if you feel something is off don't take a risk and go get a test. I didn't have a fever, l didn't lose my sense of taste or smell and I didn't have the sweats. My body just ached."
Doctors put the 30-year-old on a course of antibiotics .. and he has now returned to light training with his club Hull City.