Blackpool would back the introduction of a salary cap at League One level

Blackpool FC supports the introduction of a salary cap at League One level, saying the club’s board is “positively excited” at the prospect.
Ben Mansford (right) with Blackpool head coach Neil CritchleyBen Mansford (right) with Blackpool head coach Neil Critchley
Ben Mansford (right) with Blackpool head coach Neil Critchley

EFL chairman Rick Parry recently described some form of cap on players’ wages as “essential” to football’s recovery from the coronavirus crisis.

Such measures would prevent clubs spending beyond their means, while supporters of the cap argue that a more level playing field would lead to more competitive leagues.

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Explaining the Blackpool position, chief executive Ben Mansford said: “Further to high-profile insolvency events, along with the rising player salary costs in all leagues, and at the request of many club owners, the EFL has been reviewing its financial governance rules.

“Currently many League One and League Two clubs lose significant amounts of money each season. The biggest cost of all clubs is player salaries.

“The reason for this is that everyone is chasing to rise through the leagues to access the huge broadcasting revenues, whether it is the actual money through playing in the Premier League, Premier League parachute payments or the fact that Championship clubs receive 80 per cent of the EFL’s broadcasting and commercial revenue.

“At this moment, and based on the information the EFL have circulated about the potential salary cap rules, the board would be supportive of a salary cap.

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“At present there is no agreement about the timing for introducing any salary cap or respective levels in each EFL league.

“What I can say is that the board are positively excited about this progression as it will result in success coming down to the quality of a club’s coaching, recruitment and Academy.

“Despite the challenges we face at this time, we are still driving forward with our commitment to the Academy and are advertising to add an Academy Director to our current structure.”

This role for a head of youth operations is designed to help the club fulfil its goal of becoming the country’s best Category Three academy and ultimately rising to Category Two.