SIMON Francis revealed how “inspirational” Jordan Henderson was integral to setting up the #PlayersTogether initiative and added: “He’s effectively been the captain of this group.”

The Cherries skipper said Liverpool midfielder Henderson got in touch with each Premier League captain to explain the player-driven donation plan.

#PlayersTogether was last week launched in the fight against COVID-19, in partnership with NHS Charities together.

Writing in The Sun, Francis said: “Jordan Henderson, along with his fellow Liverpool top pro James Milner, came up with the idea which has allowed all of us in the Premier League to play our part.

“Reds skipper Henderson called each of us captains individually last week to explain his donation plan and everyone quickly got on board.

“He led our Zoom conference calls, has been active on the group chat and got his point across superbly.

“It has given those of us who have not played alongside him a great insight into his leadership skills.

“Jordan has always been an aggressive player on the pitch and has led by example, which is why he is captain of one of the world’s biggest clubs and on course to win everything.

“He had the impossible task of taking the armband from Steven Gerrard — but has become an inspirational and complete midfielder.

“He’s effectively been the captain of this group of players involved in the initiative.”