Marcus Rashford is spearheading a task force on the issue of child food poverty and is warning of “devastating” effects on the stability of the country if action is not taken quickly.

The Manchester United and England striker was successful in campaigning for free school meal vouchers to be provided to pupils over the summer period.

He had spoken about his own experience of using a food voucher scheme as a child and was praised after pressing the Government into making a U-turn on the issue.

His club and Match of the Day host Gary Lineker were among those quick to praise Rashford for his latest mission.

United tweeted news of the campaign alongside the message: “We couldn’t be prouder, @MarcusRashford.”

Former England captain Lineker posted: “What an impressive and inspirational man @MarcusRashford is. Wonderful to see a young footballer use his platform so positively to make a real difference to the lives of so many. Well played.”