Leeds United first-team players have pledged to support a new campaign called Boot the Virus that will raise money to support the NHS as they continue to fight against the coronavirus.

The campaign has been set up by two football fans to unite the football community and raise crucial funds to help support the incredible work being done by NHS staff across the country during this tragic crisis.

The idea is simple, they are asking professional football stars throughout the UK to donate a pair of signed matchday boots which will then be auctioned online here with supporters able to bid and raise money that will be sent directly to the NHS.

Kenny Marland and his partner Joanne are behind the campaign with Kenny currently undergoing chemotherapy in his fourth battle against cancer, having previously undergone surgery and had radiotherapy at St James's University hospital in Leeds. Speaking about the campaign, he said: “I have a personal affinity with the NHS heroes due to my vulnerable situation, I am frustrated at having to stay at home when I would rather be volunteering to help the wonderful people at the NHS.

“I was pondering how I could combine my passion for football and help out, then the idea of Boot the Virus came to me in a chat with Joanne. So, we are asking professional footballers and retired professionals from all the leagues in England to donate a pair of their signed matchday boots.

"I know times are difficult right now, but the plan is for all donated items to go to an online auction via our website, giving fans the opportunity to own a piece of sporting memorabilia with 100 per cent of the monies raised going directly to the NHS. If it helps the heroes in the NHS and brings some joy to football fans by owning such an item, then that’s brilliant.”

The online campaign involves a commitment from one player to provide a pair of signed boots to the cause before they are asked to nominate another four players to take part, with Leeds United captain Liam Cooper the first from the squad to get involved.

The challenge is for all clubs to be represented in this campaign with as many players as possible from each club showing their support. If you want to make a donation directly before the auction goes live, you can do so by clicking here. 

The auction will go live on Friday 1st May with all auction items set to finish at 3pm on Monday 25th May. For more information please visit www.bootthevirus.com and if you have any queries please contact admin@bootthevirus.com.