THE Premier League are donating £20million to the NHS to help ease the burden during the coronavirus pandemic.
And they’ll also risk a war with the PFA by encouraging Premier League stars to take a 30 per cent deferral in wages.
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Premier League will donate £20m to the NHS
The donation will ease growing tensions that the mega-rich Premier League are not playing their part while the deadly virus continues to spread globally.
A statement praising the heroic work of the emergency services read: “The League, clubs, players and managers express huge appreciation for the heroic efforts of NHS staff and all other key workers who are carrying out critical jobs in such difficult circumstances.
“In consultation with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, the Premier League is immediately committing £20 million to support the NHS, communities, families and vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This includes a direct financial contribution to the NHS and funds to enable clubs to refocus their efforts and develop significant outreach programmes to help communities, including those most in need.”
Health Secretary Matt Hancock sparked a public row yesterday by warning Premier League players to do their bit in the battle against the virus.
Gary Neville slammed the “f***ing cheek” of Hancock’s comments, though.
After a four-hour shareholder’s meeting that took place today, the Premier League will advise players to take a cut and follow in Manchester United’s footsteps.
It read: “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.”
They also unanimously agreed that they have no idea when the season will restart and emphasised it will only happen when it is safe to do so.
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The Prem clubs appear to be pushing another narrative by taking on the role of saviours of the lower leagues.
They said: “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.”
Health Secretary Matt Hancock calls on Premier League footballers to take a pay cut during coronavirus battle
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
