The Premier League have introduced an app for their players in a bid to improve mental and physical wellbeing.
Top-flight stars can now access information via their mobile phones on a wide range of issues including doping regulations and plans for a life after football, as part of an attempt to promote better lifestyle choices.
The app, which is backed by the FA and the PFA, has been trialled by 40 per cent of top-flight players this season and will now be rolled out to the rest of the league.
Insiders say it provides a ‘pathway to support’ and is a place where all information can be stored for easy access.
The app has been launched amid grave concerns for the psychological welfare of footballers in this country.
In May, it emerged that a record number are seeking mental health support.
The PFA expect to help ‘double or treble’ the number of players this year that they did in 2018.
Players can log on to the app and see information on where to find help. Various physical and mental health areas are covered along with dietary advice and details of the concussion protocol.
Other ‘tabs’ they can access give information on equality and diversity, and the rules and regulations of the game.
There is information on careers and how to prepare for the future following retirement. A section on safeguarding is included, along with one which lists the statistics of the user in matches that they have participated in.
The app is open to all Premier League players aged 16 and above. It is expected to be expanded to include academy players. Once a player is given access to the app, they will retain it even if they move into a separate league.
From January to May this year, 355 pros accessed therapy compared to 438 for the whole of 2018. Last month, Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka was booed by his own supporters when he was substituted during a draw with Crystal Palace.
The Swiss later revealed he had ‘reached boiling point’ following repeated threats to his wife and daughter and said he had been ‘hurt deeply’ by comments on social media.
Xhaka is by no means the only player to have been targeted online and such abuse is recognised as affecting the mental health of players. It is hoped the app will assist footballers who are dealing with adversity.
Meanwhile, managers from the top flight’s northern clubs will meet at a Manchester hotel this afternoon to discuss a variety of matters including diving and VAR, with referees’ chief Mike Riley expected to attend.