Coronavirus: Raheem Sterling, Gareth Southgate and Joe Root team up with NHS to urge public to stay home
England’s finest will team up to help reduce the spread of covid-19
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.England’s elite athletes have combined to boost the NHS in the battle against coronavirus.
The initiative, which involves the likes of Raheem Sterling, Steph Houghton and Joe Root, is designed to help stem the spread of covid-19.
England’s finest have stepped up to use their social media followings to reinforce the message from the government, doctors and scientists: Stay home.
First up was Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate, who said: “Life is very different for us all at the moment and sport rightfully stands aside to support a more important cause during these unprecedented times.
“We were supposed to be welcoming Italy and Denmark to Wembley Stadium in the coming days but football is insignificant as we are all in the midst of a global battle.
“Now is the time for sport to come together, speak with one voice and be united behind a very clear message: stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.”
Houghton and other footballers, who will send their message at 3pm today when they would usually be playing, added: “Whilst so many of us love watching and playing football and sport in general, it’s not important at the moment.
“Everybody is adapting to new situations and although it’s different and difficult, we are seeing the best in people. Communities supporting one another by dropping off shopping, picking up prescriptions and people reaching out to support each other.
“Football will return and we will appreciate it a little more for the joy it brings but for now stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.”
While Root, who had England’s tour of Sri Lanka cut short due to the virus, said: “If we all work together to stay inside then we can help those working flat-out on the frontlines to save lives.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments