The players have their say about giving back

The 20 captains of the Premier League met on Saturday via video conference call to discuss how players can contribute and give back to their communities and clubs during the coronavirus pandemic. Following is the complete statement the PFA released at the conclusion of their call…

“All Premier League players want to, and will, play their part in making significant financial contributions in these unprecedented times.

“All Premier League players fully appreciate their role and responsibilities in society during this current crisis. They care deeply for those who are suffering with loss, health and hardship at the moment.

“Discussions about how players can best financially contribute have been ongoing during the current crisis, and prior to yesterday’s announcement by the Premier League.

“The Premier League players want to take the lead and ensure their financial contributions will support:

Our clubs that we play for will obviously need our support, particularly if this crisis goes beyond June.
Non-playing staff at our Premier League clubs – guaranteeing they receive 100% of their wages.
EFL and non-league clubs, their staff and players.
The NHS – whose workers – many of whom are football fans – are doing so much for us all. They are the real heroes.

There has been no Premier League football since March 9.
“We cannot stress enough that football is in this together. Solidarity and putting aside any self-interest is paramount.

“To re-cap what the Premier League proposed within the announcement yesterday:

£20m to charitable causes.
Advancing £125m to the EFL and National League clubs.
A 12-month 30% salary cut/deferral in wages for Premier League players.
“£20m is welcome, but we believe it could be far bigger.

“The EFL money is an advance. Importantly, it will aid cashflow in the immediate, but football needs to find a way to increase funding to the EFL and non-league clubs in the long-term.

“Many clubs require an increase in funding just to survive. We believe in our football pyramid and again stress the need for solidarity between all clubs.”