Players from across the Premier League have come together to announce an NHS fund initiative to get money to where the health service needs it most.

#PlayersTogether is working directly with NHS Charities Together and was shared on social media by over 150 players from the men's top flight.

The intiative said they were 'collaborating together to create a voluntary initiative, separate to any other league and club conversation'.

The motivation behind the plan is to 'try and help, along with so many others in the country, to make a real difference'.

In the statement the amount of funding was not confirmed but it did say it would 'quickly grant funds to the NHS frontline'.

Ellie Orton, chief executive of NHS Charities Together, said: "It sends an amazing message of support to the NHS staff and volunteers working so tirelessly to save lives."

The news comes after Premier League players were heavily criticised for not taking a pay cut during the pandemic while backroom staff at some of their clubs were furloughed.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said taking a wage cut was 'the least players could do'.

He responded to the latest development on Twitter: "Warmly welcome this big-hearted decision from so many Premier League footballers to create #PlayersTogether to support NHS Charities. You are playing your part."

While TV pundit Gary Lineker, who defended the players throughout the wage row, wrote: "Footballers are doing their bit as I was confident they would. Let’s hope that others that are in a position to help, those that weren’t unfairly targeted, do likewise. Proud of our players."