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Lionesses and WSL: funding during COVID-19

While we wait to find out the fate of top-flight football in the UK, Premier League and England Women footballers have come together to provide some necessary funding for the NHS.


Whilst the men started the initiative last week, the Lionesses joined in a couple of days ago. The following statement was released.

"After discussions with a number of Premier League players, we are delighted to confirm that the whole of the Lionesses squad will make a collective donation to the #PlayersTogether fund."

But how will this affect the women's domestic game?


In terms of the Premier League, it was suggested early on in the pandemic that players should take a 30% wage cut. They dismissed this idea as they wanted to know where their money was going - hence the #PlayersTogether fund was launched.


However, pay cuts have never been mentioned in terms of Women's Super League (WSL) players. They are on much lower wages than their male counterparts, and this would prove a lot more taxing.


Some of these players - or more likely the clubs' non-playing staff - may even need to make use of the Government's Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and receive 80% of their salary from the government instead of their club.


So, even though the women's national team has taken a stand, will WSL players who don't play for their country - such as Martha Harris, a Manchester United defender - still be expected to make the #PlayersTogether donation?


Only time will tell to see if more players join the initiative.

 

The teams lower down the women's football pyramid have already had their seasons declared null and void - with fines from red and yellow cards still applying.


Whilst players and staff aren't generally paid below the Championship level, some clubs may still encounter financial issues due to fewer sponsors jumping on board for next season due to uncertainty.

 

Have your say

Should WSL players take pay cuts or make donations? Leave a comment!


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