Why Sheffield Wednesday could benefit from £125m Premier League payment amidst Covid-19 crisis

Sheffield Wednesday are among the clubs who have entered into talks with the PFA over player wage deferrals.

Wednesday recently placed a "significant" number of non-playing staff on furlough, with chairman Dejphon Chansiri pledging to top up their salaries from the 80 per cent paid by the government.

Wednesday are amongst the Championship clubs most heavily reliant on matchday revenue, with some 37 per cent of their annual income coming from games at Hillsborough at last count.

And with the ongoing coronavirus crisis forcing the FA and EFL to suspend professional matches in England suspended, clubs including Wednesday are under increasing pressure to cut costs accordingly to protect their long-term stability.

A Premier League statement today revealed that top-flight clubs are in talks with their players over a salary deferral, and reiterated a desire to complete the current season - but only "with the full support of Government and when medical guidance allows."

And the statement added: "Discussions also took place regarding financial relief for clubs in the short term and while there is no single solution, measures are to be put in place to immediately deal with the impact of falling cash flow.

"Critically, the League unanimously voted to advance funds of £125 million to the EFL and National League as it is aware of the severe difficulties clubs throughout the football pyramid are suffering at this time."

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