The PFA have taken the extraordinary step of pursuing legal action in a bid to block changes to financial controls in League One.
In a move that has triggered outrage within the EFL, the trade union has filed a case with the High Court over a proposal to drop the amount a third tier club can spend on wages from 60 per cent of revenue to 50 per cent.
As Daily Mail Sport previously revealed, League One sides lost a staggering average of £7.3m last year, and the aim of the plans is to reduce an overwhelming reliance on ownership funding.
However, the PFA – clearly concerned over the impact that the changes would have on wages – has now taken the legal route and is claiming that due process has not been followed.
In a lengthy statement, the EFL said it was ‘concerned and disappointed’ at the move.
They say the changes had been discussed at length ahead of their planned introduction, with PFA feedback taken on board.
The players’ union have taken the extraordinary step of pursuing legal action against the EFL
In 2021, the PFA successfully challenged the introduction of a salary cap however, the EFL believe the current proposal is not a major change and so should not be judged in the same manner.
A spokesperson added: ‘The PFA’s decision to oppose these reforms, and to pursue legal action, diverts limited resources and adds further cost to a game already under financial pressure. League One clubs have made it clear that change is needed.
‘Costs are rising, losses are increasing and many clubs are relying more heavily on owner funding to meet their commitments. That model is not sustainable for clubs, players or the wider game. The approved changes are intended to support responsible financial management, encourage sensible squad planning and reduce the risk of clubs spending beyond their means.
‘This is not about undermining players’ interests. It is about creating a stable environment in which clubs can meet their obligations and continue to invest in football.’
Trevor Birch, EFL chief executive, added: ‘Put simply, these reforms are designed to make clubs more sustainable. Stable clubs are better placed to honour contracts, pay wages on time, invest in facilities and create long-term opportunities for players. But a rising tide of losses and growing reliance on owner funding increase risk for everyone. That is why delaying reform is a risk. Clubs need rules that help them plan responsibly and avoid spending beyond their means.’
EFL chief executive Trevor Birch hit out at the decision, insisting that the new wage bill structure coming to League One is designed to help keep football clubs ‘sustainable’
Average losses in League One have skyrocketed from £2.3m in 2021-22 to £7.3m last season. Many players in League One are now paid in excess of £10,000 per week.
A PFA spokesperson said: ‘The PFA have begun High Court action against the EFL in relation to new wage restriction rules adopted by clubs in League One and introduced this season.
‘We believe that the process through which clubs have voted to bring in these new measures, which will artificially restrict and tighten what clubs can spend on player wages, was not in line with the consultation and agreement process required by the EFL’s membership (alongside the PFA, FA and Premier League) of the Professional Football Negotiating and Consultative Committee (PFNCC).’
