‘It’s not been taken lightly’
JOB LOSSES IN SHAKE-UP AT SAFC
Workers at Sunderland AFC are set to lose their jobs as part of restructuring plans, the club has announced.
The Black Cats have released a statement saying that following a review of its business operations, a number of roles and departments will be “consolidated”, leading to a “reduction of the club’s workforce”.
The number of jobs affected have not been specified.
Staff were informed of the news yesterday morning.
SAFC are more than £100million in debt despite being in the Premier League for 10 seasons since promotion from the Championship back in 2007.
During that time however, they have only once finished in the top half of the table, managing to secure 10th place in 2011.
Speaking about the job losses, SAFC chief executive Martin Bain, who was appointed to the role last summer, said: “In recent months we have undertaken a detailed review of the club’s entire operation.
“It is clear that the business had lost its focus and we now have to ensure that we are better equipped to be able to concentrate on the areas that are key to taking Sunderland AFC forward.
“Our infrastructure provides a tremendous platform and it is important that we capitalise on this by channeling our efforts into those areas that will have an impact.
“We want to ensure that the football club is in the best possible position to grow stronger, both on and off the field.
“The decisions have not been taken lightly.
“The internal process required in order to undertake the changes has already commenced and club staff have been advised of the procedures and timescales involved.”
Mr Bain told the Echo in December that Sunderland would not have much in the way of funds for manager David Moyes to strengthen his relegation-threatened side, who are currently bottom of the Premier League with 13 matches left to play this season.
At the time, Mr Bain said: “I think from a fan’s perspective, between themselves, ourselves, the players and David Moyes, these are times when you dig deep together.
“I have watched SunderlandfanssinceIhavecome to the club and I know they do that.
“It is remarkable the numbers they come in, week-in week-out.
“This is a time we need them.
“This is the time we just have to deal with the cards that we have been dealt and get on with it.”
The club did buy Everton pair Bryan Ovideo and Darron Gibson as well as sign free agent Joleon Les- cott, but only after full-back Patrick van Aanholt was sold to Crystal Palace for £14million.
Veteran supporter George Forster spoke of his disappointment at the news about the redundancies.
“It’s very sad because going back to the days of Roker Park we knew a lot of the staff and how hard they work,” said George, who is part of Sunderland Supporters’ Association.
“Obviously the club is in debt and hopefully that won’t escalate in any way.
“Some of the players we’ve got are on high salaries and maybe we can’t afford to keep getting in those types anymore.
“You just feel for the staff and what they’re going through. It’s unfortunate but this is something that happens in life.”
Sunderland face Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday as they return to Premier League action following a two-week break.
“Thedecisionshave notbeentakenlightly” CHIEF EXECUTIVE MARTIN BAIN