During a time of crisis in the world, Leeds United are doing their bit to ensure that their staff are being supported through the current lock down measures to combat COVID-19.
This comes following fellow Championship side Birmingham City’s move to do the same, as a statement from the club spoke about the financial impact of the Coronavirus on the club and their staff.
“There is no concrete plan for a return date with Marcelo Bielsa’s side sitting top of the Sky Bet Championship with just nine games left to play. The lack of fixtures, cancellation of events, impact on ancillary revenue and closure of the football financing market will cost the club several million pounds each month.“
“Following a regular catch up between chief executive Angus Kinnear, director of football Victor Orta and several senior players, the decision was made by the squad to defer part of their own salaries to ensure that the club can continue to pay all 272 members of full-time staff and the majority of casual staff for the coming months.
Side Before Self, Every Time
— Leeds United (@LUFC) March 26, 2020
“Collectively the Leeds United first-team squad said: ‘Leeds United is a family, this is the culture that has been created by everyone at the club, from the players and the board to the staff and the supporters in the stands. We face uncertain times and therefore it is important that we all work together to find a way that the club can push through this period and end the season in the way we all hope we can. In the meantime, let’s work as one to listen to the government advice and the health service and beat this virus.’
Director of football, Victor Orta, added: ‘My players have demonstrated an incredible sense of unity and togetherness and I am proud of their actions. To Marcelo and his staff and all of the players, we thank them for putting our wider team first and taking care of family. Now we must focus on public health, and when the people are safe, finish what we started. Vamos carajo.”
In what is a difficult time, football has a responsibility to do their bit to support the people, and this move shows excellent generosity among the highest paid figures at the club. Hopefully more clubs do the same.