Premier League stars have launched a huge campaign to raise £100,000 and help local communities through the coronavirus pandemic.
Arsenal defender Hector Bellerin, Manchester United right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Crystal Palace winger Andros Townsend and Bournemouth's England striker Callum Wilson are all signed up to the #FootballUnited campaign.
Chelsea defender Reece James kicked off the campaign on social media today at 3pm.
Proceeds donated to #FootballUnited will be collected by the National Emergencies Trust and used to support elderly and vulnerable people affected by the virus.
Players will use the social media tag and hope it will encourage other players and leading football figures to lend their support.
It is another hugely admirable campaign as football continues to come together amid the crisis on the back of clubs launching community campaigns and making donations on top of Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola making a £920,000 donation to help fight the virus in Spain.
The campaign is being co-ordinated by Unique Sports Management and a joint statement on behalf of the players said: “Football has such a big role to play in communities and our clubs are a huge part of people’s lives.
“Without football, we want to put our rivalries aside and show togetherness at such a critical moment for the country.
“These are uncertain times for communities, but as players we want to show some recognition for the incredible work that is being done for the most vulnerable.
“There are so many people at home who are afraid, alone and without full-time care.
“With the nation’s help, we can show our support to the many volunteers and organisations who need funds to make sure vital food and medicine supplies will continue to be delivered during the crisis.
“As players we would love nothing more than to be out there playing in front of packed stadiums again, but that can wait – the most important thing right now is the future of the country and #FootballUnited is our way of showing some community spirit.”
Marlon Fleischman, managing director at Unique Sports Management, said: “At such an unprecedented time, we are proud to support our players striving to make positive change through #FootballUnited.
“Now is the time for the football community to show solidarity and work together to help those who need urgent help, resources and care.
“Working alongside the National Emergencies Trust, we hope that the #FootballUnited campaign will generate vital funds to reach those local communities and charities at the time when they need it most.”
