EFL warn of 'difficult decisions' ahead as Sunderland take cost-cutting measures

They had on Friday been part of a summit that included the PFA and the Premier League.

The PFA had called the summit after clubs throughout the leagues had requested that their players take wage deferrals in order to protect the club’s financial positions through the long postponement.

Leeds United were the first club to publicly confirm on Thursday that their players and senior management would defer their wages.

“The Premier League, EFL and PFA met today and discussed the growing seriousness of the COVID19 pandemic,” the statement reads.

“It was stressed that the thoughts of all three organisations continue to be with everyone affected by the virus.

“The Premier League, EFL and PFA agreed that difficult decisions will have to be taken in order to mitigate the economic impact of the current suspension of professional football in England and agreed to work together to arrive at shared solutions.

“The leagues will not recommence until April 30 at the earliest. They will only do so when it is safe and conditions allow.

“Further meetings will take place next week with a view to formulating a joint plan to deal with the difficult circumstances facing the leagues, their clubs, players, staff and fans.”

Sunderland on Friday confirmed that they had placed a number of their non-playing staff on furlough leave during the postponement.

80% of their wages will be covered by the government’s subsidy scheme, with the club covering the rest.

A number of other League One clubs have taken similar steps, including MK Dons, Accrington Stanley and Rotherham United.

As of yet, they have not taken any decisions on player’s wages and they are being paid in full.

These talks with the PFA are likely to be key to that, with the various governing bodies eager to try and ensure that clubs take a uniform approach to the crisis.