A young Irish boy's creative take on training in self-isolation during the coronavirus outbreak has drawn praise from goalkeeping greats like David de Gea and Peter Schmeichel.

Journalist Sarah-Jayne Tobin posted footage on Monday of her son Nate practising his skills between the sticks by kicking the ball against their garden fence to simulate a shot on goal.

"When you're a goalkeeper… and an only child… in self isolation… and trying to keep up with your training…came up with this himself! I’m so impressed." she wrote.

The clip has since been viewed by millions on Twitter and drawn the attention of some stars of the football world, with Tobin later saying that the video going viral had been "the most wonderful distraction from a thing that was worrying him".

Ex-Manchester United great Peter Schmeichel said on Twitter: "Nothing, not even an evil virus…should stop a talented goalkeeper from working on getting better. Well done young man."

Current United duo Juan Mata and De Gea both also replied to the post, Mata writing: "One day, if he wants, and when all this is over, I would like to practice my freeckicks with him on goal! What do you think", while De Gea declared: ‘Love it!’

Watford 'keeper Ben Foster said: "What a legend!!!! I don't know how we’re gonna be able to do it but I’m gonna have to put a training session on for ya!!!! Keep going mate I love it."

Former Everton and Wales stopper Neville Southall also advised the youngster to keep up the practice.