Henderson has spent the past few days contacting Premier League captains to discuss the idea of a fund to help the NHS

Jordan Henderson is organising a Premier League coronavirus crisis fund for the NHS that will run into millions of pounds.

The Times understands that the Liverpool captain has spent the last few days contacting the captains of other Premier League clubs to pitch the idea.

The initiative being led by the England international pre-dates the scathing comments made by Health Secretary Matt Hancock, who called upon top-flight footballers to “play their part” during Thursday’s government crisis briefing.

Talks with Premier League captains were continuing today and the initial reaction has been wholly positive, with players determined to raise cash for those on the frontline. Indeed the players are happy to engage with Hancock and his department despite the criticism they have received. They will seek