English Premier LeagueCOVID-19: Premier League club captains discuss pay and support options
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Premier League club captains have held talks for several days concerning the possible moves to give money to charity during the coronavirus pandemic.

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The Captain talks, led by Liverpool’s Jordan Henderson took place shortly before the Premier League announced it would ask players to take a 30% pay cut.

During the call, Premier League captains discussed wage deferrals or cuts, or a move to help fund a charitable cause.

They also had talks on the ongoing Professional’s Footballer’s Association, the players’ union.

It is understood players are in advanced talks to set up a collective fund which will offer a “seriously significant” amount. The NHS the likely beneficiary.

It is not yet known how much will be contributed. Either, if a flat amount from each club will be put forward.

“Footballers painted as villains”

During the enforced break from action, some clubs have furloughed their non-playing staff and not looked at the player’s wages.

Hancock has called on players “to do more and play their part”. His comment was echoed by Julian Knight who is the chair of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport committee.

Knight has written to Premier League chief executive, Richard Masters calling for action on players’ wages. He added clubs that furlough non-playing staff but not impose cuts on player wages should be subjected to a windfall tax. According to him, this should happen by the 7th of April if they do not change their approach.

The League Managers Association which represents managers across England game had its view. They said the financial position of clubs varied widely across the league as a result of the pandemic.

“In some clubs where the staff has not been furloughed, they have already agreed ay cuts or to defer part of their salaries.”

Tottenham chairman, Daniel Levy earned £7m last year is among those to give up a fifth of their earnings. He has as well called on English top-flight players to “do their bit for the football eco-system.”