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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Alex Milne

Coronavirus: Toby Alderweireld pledges to donate tablet computers to nursing homes

Tottenham centre-back Toby Alderweireld has announced that he will buy "dozens of tablets" to enable people in need to be able to talk to their families online amid the coronavirus crisis.

The government have advised that people should only leave their houses when absolutely necessary to lessen the chances of COVID-19 spreading, and as a result many are unable to spend time with their loved ones.

Speaking via a video on his personal Twitter account, Alderweireld announced his plans while urging people to follow expert advice and self-isolate where possible.

"I hope everyone is following the government measures to stop the further spread of the coronavirus," Alderweireld said.

Toby Alderweireld will spend thousands of pounds on buying tablet computers (Action Images via Reuters)

"The virus creates many needs, especially the lack of personal contact. If people are sick they can't see their friends, they can't see their family.

"So my plan is to buy dozens of tablets to give to the hospitals and nursing homes so people can video chat with their loved ones and their friends to get through this tough period.

"In the next couple of days and weeks I'm trying to get those tablets to the places where they can help."

He also accompanied his video with the caption: "Whoever can help, please help! Together, we can come out of this difficult time stronger than ever. Stay safe everyone."

Alderweireld becomes the latest high-profile footballer to donate to the cause, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane also putting vast amounts of money towards coronavirus-related schemes.

Jan Vertonghen criticised those who are ignoring government advice (REUTERS)

Meanwhile, Alderweireld's defensive partner Jan Vertonghen hit out on social media at those who are continuing to ignore advice and spend unnecessary time outside, claiming they should receive a punishment for their actions.

Posting on Twitter, he said: "Should fine big time for everyone who’s not respecting the protection measures and give the money back to NHS, doctors, nurses, key workers etc…#SocialDistancing."

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