The PFA slam the salary cap proposals facing Sunderland, Portsmouth and Ipswich Town in an explosive statement

The Professional Footballers Association have slammed the salary cap proposals facing League One clubs – having claimed the plans are ‘being rushed through without proper consideration or consultation’.
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In an explosive statement, released on the eve of the vote to decide whether the proposals will be implemented, the PFA also claim that the plans could be ‘unlawful and unenforceable’ given a proper period of consultation has not taken place.

The players’ union have been vocal in their belief that the caps should be not introduced in their current form, echoing the views of Sunderland – who are set to vote against the plans.

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Clubs will be asked to vote on whether or not to approve the proposals on Friday, August 7. If the salary cap plans are approved, then clubs will have to limit their spending on wages, relocation costs, National Insurance and agent fees to a figure of £2.5million. In League Two, this figure will be £1.5million while there will also be a squad cap of 22 players in both divisions.

The PFA have hit out at the salary cap plans facing League OneThe PFA have hit out at the salary cap plans facing League One
The PFA have hit out at the salary cap plans facing League One

A number of clubs, including the Black Cats, Portsmouth and Oxford United, are against the plans – and have a strong ally in the PFA.

In their statement, the association said: “Ahead of the EFL vote tomorrow, the PFA has sent a report to all club Chief Executives and the EFL regarding the proposed salary caps for League One and Two.

“The report has raised concerns that the proposed cap is being rushed through, without proper consideration or consultation.

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“Like everyone involved in football, we want to see sustainable clubs at all levels. We absolutely understand and appreciate the huge economic pressure that clubs have come under due to the COVID-19 crisis.

“However, we have significant reservations about the measures being proposed and the speed at which these are being implemented.

“The introduction of a salary cap in English football represents a seismic change. It is a change that will have far-reaching and significant impacts right across the professional game. We must take the time to ensure that these are properly considered and understood.

“We have been surprised and disappointed at the level of consultation and engagement around these proposals so far.

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“It is, undoubtedly, in the best interests of the clubs, the leagues and the players that we work together on this important issue.

“Today, we have invited the EFL to a period of expedited arbitration in August, before the next season starts and the transfer window closes, in order to reach a shared agreement on the way forward.

“The EFL has a legal obligation to consult with the PFA and the Professional Football Negotiating and Consultative Committee (PFNCC), over any potential changes to a player’s conditions.

“This consultation has not happened, and as such, we are gravely concerned that any cap brought in will be unlawful and unenforceable, which will ultimately be detrimental to everyone involved.”