Christian Burgess says it's no hardship for Pompey's players to put their spare time in the lockdown to good use by helping vulnerable members of the community.

Burgess is among Blues players and staff to volunteer to help charity and community projects aiming to keep people's lifeline services running throughout the national crisis.

He told the club website: “I got in contact with Clare at Pompey in the Community to see what we could do to help out. She told us about everything they’re doing with Hive and some other charities and put me in contact with Landport Community Centre.

'I’ve been doing a few deliveries and some work in the kitchen there. It’s fantastic and is keeping me busy. Portsmouth Football Club is a huge part of the city and the community. People are going through tough times and it’s nice to do what we can to put a smile on somebody’s face.

'It’s not a lot from my end, but it’s great to be able to have that kind of impact. We’re in a privileged position. Everyone wants to be a footballer when they’re young and if we can be a positive role model then hopefully it will rub off on them.

'A few boys have been down to do some deliveries and Raggs (Sean Raggett) got stuck in in the kitchen — they enjoyed having him. The boys have got other stuff going on behind the scenes and it’s a time for togetherness and helping out.

'Everyone is contributing in some way or other and it’s really nice and positive — we’re all proud of each other.'

Burgess also told the website how the players are keeping busy - and fit - as they await news of when football may return.

He said: 'I’m reading books, watching the odd documentary and keeping fit by doing some gym work from home. I’ve been going for runs along the seafront and everyone’s really competitive, looking at the times. A few of them are trying to outdo each other on bike rides.

'Raggs is doing the quickest 10ks — I thought he must be cheating. That’s the topic of conversation on the group chat and the boys are impressed.'

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