Jordan Henderson is organising a Premier League coronavirus fund, which will raise millions of pounds for the NHS.
The Times report that the Liverpool skipper has been contacting captains of other Premier League clubs in the past few days to pitch his idea.
Henderson was in the midst of organising this plan before Health Secretary Matt Hancock called upon Premier League footballers to “play their part” during Thursday’s government crisis briefing.
The reaction to Henderson’s plan has been “wholly positive” with players determined to raise money for those on the frontline.
They will ask for guidance on how the money can be distributed best to help deal with the coronavirus pandemic.
Contact has already been made with banks to set up the fund, with footballers being asked to contribute.
With all players from the 20 clubs being able to donate, it could raise millions for the NHS.
Earlier today, it was reported that Manchester United have agreed a 30% wage cut in order to raise money for local hospitals.
This coronavirus fund is separate to that.
According to The Times, “Henderson is not looking to take any credit for this. Indeed he was said to be frustrated that news of the plans had emerged prior to the fund being created."
Sources close to the player say that he simply wants to use what influence he has to support NHS workers and the wider community.
That has been criticisms of football clubs and players in this coronavirus crisis - especially Newcastle and Tottenham who moved to place non-playing staff on furlough.
“Given the sacrifices many people are making, the first thing Premier League footballers can do is make a contribution,” Matt Hancock, the health secretary, said yesterday.
But little did he know that Henderson was already setting up a fund that would allow every single Premier League player to contribute.
Well played, Hendo.