Elgin’s staff and players told of request

Elgin City have asked their players and staff to accept the club’s request to be placed on the furlough scheme.

There had initially been discussions about players taking a 67% cut to their salary in a bid to help the League 2 club survive during the coronavirus lockdown.

But the introduction of the government’s coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, plus funding generated by a crowdfunding page set up by supporters, has given Elgin some breathing space.

Chairman Graham Tatters said: “The players and staff will be asked to accept a furlough agreement and if they do so, they will be placed on leave with 80% of their salary. The requests were issued on Tuesday March 31.

“The significant movement on salaries is essential for the survival of the club and this scheme is a lifesaver for all the lower league clubs, possibly for all of the SPFL.

“Moreover, the SFA have assisted with early issue of licensing and youth football payments, which gives us a little more breathing space.

“We have been well supported throughout the year and that continues in various guises and I believe we are in a better financial position than many other clubs.

“I can assure you all the board of directors are working tirelessly to ensure we have a football club in a position to play once this terrible situation eases.

“One must put it all into perspective; we are a football club trying to survive but there are people losing their livelihoods and worse.”

Elgin followed Cove Rangers in such a move, with the League 2 leaders also announcing a similar step.