The Professional Footballers’ Association has said attempts to impose a salary cap on EFL clubs may be “unlawful and unenforceable” a day before the measures are put to a vote.
EFL clubs are set to decide on Friday whether to implement a salary cap, a move widely claimed as essential in helping the lower leagues reset their finances.
The PFA has weighed in against the proposal, however, claiming the EFL has failed in a legal obligation to fully consult the players’ union over “any potential changes to a player’s conditions”. The union said it was sending its dossier on the effects of a salary cap to clubs, and called for a period of arbitration to take place this month.
“Like everyone involved in football, we want to see sustainable clubs at all levels,” a PFA spokesperson said. “We absolutely understand and appreciate the huge economic pressure clubs have come under due to the Covid-19 crisis.
“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 these are properly considered and understood.
“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 any cap brought in will be unlawful and unenforceable, which will ultimately be detrimental to everyone involved.”
The Guardian understands discussions involving the EFL and PFA have taken place at the PFNCC. The vote is expected to go ahead as planned.
