Football bodies could soon be forced to cover care costs for former players suffering with brain conditions

Problems caused by heading a ball may be seen as an 'industrial injury' in football governance bill changes

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FOOTBALL organisations could be forced to pay towards the care costs of ex-players who have suffered brain conditions caused by heading balls under proposals to be tabled in Parliament.

Campaigners are drafting amendments to the Football Governance Bill with the aim of treating it as an 'industrial injuries issue' and overseeing a scheme to provide care and support for those affected.

The proposals seek to require the industry, including the Football Association and Professional Footballers' Association, to provide the necessary financial support amid concerns existing arrangements are not fit for purpose.

The Brain Health Fund, set up with an initial £1 million in 2023 by the PFA union with support from the Premier League, has been criticised by campaigners.

The Premier League said the fund has supported 121 families with at-home adaptations and care home fees.

Labour MP Chris Evans is among those who are pushing for the football authorities to contribute towards the high care costs faced by players who have gone on to develop Alzheimer's, dementia and other neurological illnesses after they have retired.

From the 1966 World Cup-winning England team, both Jack and Bobby Charlton died with dementia, as did Martin Peters, Ray Wilson and Nobby Stiles, right.