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Manchester United captain Harry Maguire has spoken of his motive for supplying essential food packages to pensioners in his native Sheffield.

England star Maguire wanted to do something to help elderly residents - unable to go out because of the coronavirus pandemic - in the village of Mosborough, where he grew up.

The 27-year-old has arranged for the packages to be distributed to those aged 70 and over and has chosen two local businesses to deliver them to those in need, further supporting the local community.

Maguire's act is the latest act of generosity from the defender, who played a key role in the forming of #PlayersTogether, the movement whereby players donate part of their salaries to the NHS.

Explaining the motive behind his move to help the vulnerable in the community where he grew up, Maguire talked of his enduring bond with Mosborough and his pride at having hailed from the small town.

“I am very proud of my Mosborough roots,” said Maguire.

“It’s where I grew up and where my family still live.

“I come back to visit everyone as much as I can. There’s always been a real sense of community in the area which is more important than ever at the moment.

“In times like these you think a lot about your loved ones and those that are more elderly, so I just wanted to do something to help those who need it most.

“Herrings Top Shop is a bit of an institution in Mosborough, so my dad and I approached them about creating food packages of everyday essentials to those aged 70-and-over – or their carers – in the local area.

“Herrings have been brilliant in helping us to make this happen, as have their suppliers Fields Fruit and Veg, who are going to carry out all of the deliveries – so it’s been an incredible team effort so far.

“My family and I hope that this provides a small comfort to people who might be struggling.

(Image: Manchester United via Getty Imag)

"The main reason I wanted to say a few words was just to draw attention to the fact these food parcels can be claimed if people tell us who needs them.

“So, if you would like to receive one of these packages, or know someone else who might appreciate one, then please look at the Mosborough Community Forum on Facebook where there are further details.

“I appreciate that not all senior citizens are on the internet, but hopefully friends, family or carers can assist them.”

(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

Maguire opened up on life under lockdown in his household, admitting his garden was no substitute for the immaculately-kept Old Trafford surface.

“Like everyone, I’m keeping to the government advice and trying to make the best of the situation,” said Maguire.

“My daughter is too young to understand what’s going on right now, but she’ll read about these times in the years to come.

“I’m also keeping active and following the training programme that United have given me within the confines of my back garden.

“It’s not quite Old Trafford, but I still take pride in keeping the grass in good nick.

“I also keep in touch with all my teammates and have found that contact to be really important – as well as family of course.”

A message posted on the Mosborough Community Forum Facebook page thanked Maguire for his efforts and said: “We have been contacted by local boy Harry Maguire and we have some nice news to share.

“The Manchester United and England footballer has kindly offered to supply a food package of everyday essentials to the elderly (70 and over) in Mosborough district.

“Harry recognises the difficulty for some of our older residents getting out and about currently - plus the amazing friends, family and carers that have been looking after them.

“Therefore, he wanted to do something to help. Harry is arranging for the food parcels to be kindly made up by Herrings Top Shop. These will be then delivered by Fields Fruit and Veg so it’s a real community effort.

“It will be one package per household and the deadline to get the information over to us will be Wednesday, 15 April. Herrings Top Shop and Fields Fruit and Veg will then aim to get them delivered to everyone as soon as possible.

“As well as the two retailers, we would just like to say thank you to Harry and his family for this act of kindness and helping the elderly in the Mosborough community.”