FANS ANGRY AT LIVERPOOL
Carragher joins condemnation of furlough move
LIVERPOOL became the fifth Premier League club to put non-playing staff on furlough yesterday, but their move to seek Government money to subsidise wages prompted an angry backlash from fans. It was described as ‘shambolic’ and ‘shameful’ by supporters of the reigning European champions, while former player Jamie Carragher said the club would “lose goodwill and respect”. The decision was announced through a statement from Anfield yesterday afternoon – and Liverpool said they would top up the rest of the salary not paid through the Government Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, which will fund 80 per cent of wages. Liverpool’s move came even though agreement has not yet been reached on what are likely to be significant pay cuts for their superstar players – reductions that might make money available to the club. Newcastle, Tottenham, Norwich and Bournemouth had already confirmed they were taking advantage of the Government scheme. That didn’t prevent Liverpool fans responding with furious dismay on social media – and demanding a re-think by the champions-elect of the Premier League. “Absolutely shambolic,” wrote @Lfcnasir. “Expected better. Just because other clubs do it, doesn’t mean we have to follow. “We’re a global institution. We shouldn’t be begging the Government to cover 80 per cent of wages.” The sentiment was echoed by @ Wannabe_biker46, who wrote: “If I’m reading this right and the Government are
paying 80 per cent, that is absolutely shameful from LFC.
“As a lifelong supporter I am embarrassed that my club, who are one of the richest in the world, are using this scheme. Please have a re-think as it does not reflect well.”
And @robrogers94, said: “I do not agree with this. We’re better than that.”
Swift criticism also came from Carragher, who said on Twitter: “Jurgen Klopp showed compassion for all at the start of this pandemic, senior players heavily involved in Premier League players taking wage cuts. Then all that respect and goodwill is lost --- poor this LFC.”
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson (below) has been at the forefront of moves to agree pay cuts for Premier League stars, and was involved in a meeting yesterday of football’s powerbrokers about that issue.
No final decision has been reached on that yet. The Liverpool club statement yesterday said:
“These discussions are complex and as a result the process is ongoing.”