NHS: Premier League players' initiative to generate & distribute funds

Premier League players have launched a "collective initiative" to help generate funds for the National Health Service and distribute them "where they are needed most".

The initiative - named #PlayersTogether - has been set up to "help those fighting for us on the NHS frontline" amid the coronavirus pandemic.

It has partnered with NHS Charities Together (NHSCT).

"It is about we, as players, collaborating together to create a voluntary initiative, separate to any other league and club conversation," a statement from the group read.

"To try and help, along with so many others in the country, to make a real difference."

It added contributions would help "quickly grant funds to the NHS frontline".

Premier League clubs previously said they would ask players to take a 30% pay cut in order to protect jobs.

However, the Professional Footballers' Association said such a cut could harm the NHS, adding players were "mindful of their social responsibilities".

More than 7,000 people have died of coronavirus in the UK, according to the latest Department of Health figures.

Speaking to BBC Sport earlier on Wednesday, former England striker and Match of the Day pundit Alan Shearer said it should be up to the players to decide the best way to help.

After the announcement, MOTD presenter Gary Lineker tweeted he was "proud of our players".

"Footballers are doing their bit as I was confident they would," he wrote.

"Let's hope that others that are in a position to help, those that weren't unfairly targeted, do likewise."

Premier League football has been postponed until at least 30 April because of the spread of coronavirus.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said last week players should "take a pay cut and play their part".

Clubs have announced a number of measures to support fans and the local communities.

The chief executive of NHS Charities Together thanked the players for their "fantastic" initiative.

"It sends an amazing message of support to the NHS staff and volunteers working so tirelessly to save lives," Ellie Orton said.