Premier League to give £125 million to lower leagues

Premier League clubs have voted to provide £125million to Football League and National League teams to help with their cash flow problems caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The clubs agreed to consult with their players concerning a 30 per cent wage deferral to assist with the payment of non-playing staff during the pandemic.

The Premier League also said they were “committing £20 million to support the NHS, communities, families and vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

A statement 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.

“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.”

On the subject of the season restarting, the statement said: “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 EFL said in a statement: “The EFL also notes and appreciates the decision taken today by the Premier League in respect of the short-term financial relief it is to provide EFL clubs through the advancement of solidarity payments, parachute payments and academy Grants.

“These actions will have a positive impact on individual clubs across our three divisions at a difficult and uncertain time.”