Premier League players are close to formally launching their own charity fund that is expected to generate millions of pounds for good causes in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.

Extensive talks between the 20 Premier League captains and other senior players over the past week have resulted in plans to create a centralised fund to which players can make private donations.

Money raised will go to a series of good causes, from NHS charities to community projects and food banks, as well as helping employees of their own clubs to ensure they are not left out of pocket by the global pandemic.

The players’ fund will be run by the Professional Footballers’ Association, who are understood to be contributing £1 million to it.

In addition, Gordon Taylor, the chief executive of the players’ union whose £2.3m salary has been a source of considerable controversy, will make a personal donation of £500,000.