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Sports News of Friday, 3 April 2020

Source: www.mynigeria.com

PL tells players to take 30% pay cut, suspends league restart until end of COVID-19

Premier League trophy Premier League trophy

Premier League stakeholders have asked all players in the league to take a pay cut of 30 per cent after agreeing that league won't restart until the end of the coronavirus pandemic.

The suggestions were made by all clubs during an hour-long video conference meeting on Friday.

As a result of the deadly virus that has infected at least 38,168 persons, killing 3,605 as of April 3, the early May restart date was dropped until further notice although the clubs remain determined to play the remaining 92 games.

The stakeholders also announced the establishment of a £125m hardship fund to sustain EFL and National League clubs including a consensus to raise an extra £20m donation to the NHS to help in the fight against the virus.

The statement reads:

“It was acknowledged that the Premier League will not resume at the beginning of May - and that the 2019/20 season will only return when it is safe and appropriate to do so.

“The restart date is under constant review with all stakeholders, as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic develops and we work together through this very challenging time.

“The Premier League is working closely with the whole of professional football in this country, as well as with the Government, public agencies and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the game achieves a collaborative solution.

“With this, there is a combined objective for all remaining domestic league and cup matches to be played, enabling us to maintain the integrity of each competition.

“However, any return to play will only be with the full support of Government and when medical guidance allows.”

The statement added: “In the face of substantial and continuing losses for the 2019/20 season since the suspension of matches began, and to protect employment throughout the professional game, Premier League clubs unanimously agreed to consult their players regarding a combination of conditional reductions and deferrals amounting to 30 per cent of total annual remuneration.

“This guidance will be kept under constant review as circumstances change.

“The League will be in regular contact with the PFA and the union will join a meeting which will be held tomorrow between the League, players and club representatives.”

“Measures are to be put in place to immediately deal with the impact of falling cash flow.

“Critically, the League unanimously voted to advance funds of £125 million to the EFL and National League as it is aware of the severe difficulties clubs throughout the football pyramid are suffering at this time.”

The Sun