News of Ben Motshwari contracting Covid-19 has increased fear and anxiety among some players in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

The Orlando Pirates midfield dynamo is taking precautionary measures to recover from the novel virus.

Highlands Park player Makhehleni Makhaula, who is from Randfontein, just like Motshwari, said he felt that the deadly virus was closer to him than ever before.

"I have spoken with Motshwari about this telephonically," Makhaula said.

"This is scary, especially to find out that someone that we know is infected. To me, he is my brother and it is terrifying to hear that one of my brothers tested positive for coronavirus."

Makhaula said Motshwari remains positive he will recover from the virus.

"When we spoke, he was OK and told me not to stress, he knows that he will recover from this as long as he follows necessary measures. I wish him a speedy recovery, we need him," Makhaula said.

"As players, we are worried since one of us is infected. That is why we have to go and do check-ups so we can know our status. Where I am, I am safe and following the necessary precautions. We miss football. Ben will be fine, he is a soldier and we need him back."

Bidvest Wits midfielder Thabang Monare, who is Motshwari's close friend, also feels more nervous about Covid-19 than before.

"To be honest, it is a bit scary but we are with him. We know that he is going to recover [but] to be honest there are nerves about it. There is nothing we can do about it," he said.

Monare said Motshwari might have been exposed to the virus in going to the shops to buy essentials during the lockdown. "It's been scary going to the shops to buy essentials and groceries that have to be done. He is positive mentally about it. He will be fine, he is a strong man."