Former England soccer captain Wayne Rooney said that soccer players were treated "as hogs" in the current battle with the Coronavirus.
Football competitions continued in England after other sports announced their suspension, until the decision was taken on Friday to suspend the whole season until at least April 3.
"There was no leadership from the government, the English Football Association or the Premier League," Rooney wrote to the Sunday Times. "After the emergency meeting, I finally made the right decision, and until that time I almost felt that England's soccer players were treated as hogs."
"I know this feeling; if anyone in my family gets this infection it will be from me because I had to play when it was not safe, and they got sick, I have to think very well not to play again. I will never forgive the authorities."
Rooney said it was "difficult and worrying times" for the players and their families after the other sports were suspended.
The English Premier League changed its decision after Arsenal manager Michael Artita announced on Thursday that his examination was positive and confirmed the suspension of matches the next day.
"Why did we wait until Friday? Why did we need (even Artita disease) in England to make the right decision? I think many players were wondering if the money was involved in that?" Rooney said.
Rooney, 34, who returned to England after a period of time playing in the United States in January to become a player and coach for the first division rival Derby County team, stressed that the season must be completed, but when the situation is safe.
"We will be happy to play until September if the season is extended for this time, if we need to finish it. This is our job as long as the situation is safe to play, and the environment is safe for the fans," he said.
He pointed out that "the next World Cup will take place in November and December 2022, so it is possible to take advantage of this situation, and say that we will end the 2019-2020 season late this year and then prepare for the 2022 season by starting the next two seasons in the winter."