Mount convinced to get COVID-19 vaccine after Euro 2020 isolation

Mason Mount says going through the experience of missing part of England’s run to the Euro 2020 final after being forced to isolate played a part in his decision to get the COVID-19 vaccination.

The 22-year-old and team-mate Ben Chilwell were deemed close contacts of Scotland’s Billy Gilmour, who tested positive for coronavirus after a stalemate with England at Wembley, and had to sit out the Three Lions’ final group game with the Czech Republic.

He was back on the bench for the last-16 tie with Germany, but Gareth Southgate did not feel the Chelsea playmaker was fit enough to play a part and he was an unused substitute in a famous 2-0 win.

Under current coronavirus protocols, which have changed since June and July, those who have been fully vaccinated no longer have to isolate after coming into contact with somebody that has tested positive for the virus.

And amid fresh scrutiny about the vaccination rates within football, with a number of England players unwilling to disclose their status, Mount has confirmed he has received both doses.

“Going through that experience, missing the game, a top, top game kind of did have an effect on my decision,” he told reporters ahead of England’s World Cup qualifier with Hungary on Tuesday.

“But I think for players, personally it’s down to someone and it is down to their decision how they feel about it.

“I don’t think you can force anyone to get it but, for me, going through that experience, it did make me want to get it and get it quite quickly.”

Me and my brothers. pic.twitter.com/G3amlOUtBI

— Mason Mount (@masonmount_10) October 11, 2021

Mount started five games for beaten finalists England at Euro 2020 and has already featured eight times for Chelsea this campaign.

He did take some time to get up to full speed, which he puts down to a hangover on the back of England’s memorable Euros run.

“After an experience like that and how far we got, it does take some time to get over it and reflect,” said Mount, who has been included on the 30-man shortlist for the 2021 Ballon d’Or award.

“But as soon as the next season starts, that’s go to be behind you. Maybe physically there can still be a toll, even though you’ve had a break.

“So it’s natural that happens and after playing many games in the normal season, then to go to the Euros and play games, and then after a short break go straight into pre-season, it can take a toll. 

“Maybe I’ve felt that a bit this season. I missed a week with a little injury at Chelsea but to get back and be in the England squad, that little break makes you feel more energetic and gives you that little boost. 

“I don’t want to miss any game but it does help sometimes to take a step back and let yourself recover.”