Health secetary embroiled in Premier League wage row

Health secretary Matt Hancock waded into the Premier League wages row by saying “Given the sacrifices many people are making, the first thing Premier League  footballers can do is make a contribution,” during his daily government briefing yesterday.

The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) responded by saying “players will have to share the financial burden”.

In a statement, the PFA added: “We are aware of the public sentiment that the players should pay non-playing staff’s salaries. However, our current position is that – as businesses – if clubs can afford to pay their players and staff, they should.

“The players we have spoken to recognise that the non-playing staff are a vital part of their club and they do not want to see club staff furloughed unfairly.

“Any use of the government’s support schemes without genuine financial need is detrimental to the wider society.

“In instances where clubs have the resources to pay all staff, the benefit of players paying non-playing staff salaries will only serve the business of the club’s shareholders.”

Former footballer Gary Neville has reacted to Hancock’s comments by saying “I wish I was a player for 10 more mins, The Premier League players are more than likely working on a proposal to help clubs, communities and The NHS ‘It takes longer than 2 weeks to put together. Matt Hancock calling them out when he can’t get tests in place for NHS staff is a f@@@@@g cheek!’”