Out Of Contract Players Doomed?

Last updated : 13 March 2002 By Jonathan Hall

The Football League's 72 clubs are considering introducing salary caps, and limiting the size of playing squads. Scores of contracts that expire this May will not be renewed. If replacements are hired, they will be younger, cheaper and often foreign players.

 

Spokesman for the Football League, Ian Christon, confirmed that talks had taken place between football league officials and chairman, about capping salaries and squad sizes. “It's clear what the problem is, and it's players' wages. Clubs realise the amount they are spending on players' wages can't be sustained.”

 

Chairmen in Division Three, such as Leyton Orient's Barry Hearn, will be taking drastic measures come the end of the season.

 

Hearn, will cut his staff drastically, from 34 players to 24. “At our level we have a surplus of players and the market is awash with available footballers. That will become a monsoon this summer because everyone will cut their squads. We've had as many as 37 pros this season but I've told my manager that the maximum number we'll have next season is 24. Other chairmen are planning to do the same,” said Hearn.

 

Undoubtedly, Lincoln City Chairman Rob Bradley is forced to follow a similar trend, as he gradually works on lowering the club's wage bill. Last week saw the departure of skipper John Finnigan in what can be viewed as a good bit of business, as the club will save up to £20,000 on his wages alone.

 

Once transfer deadline day comes round and passes as the season nears its end, the Imps will not be buying – only releasing. The growing relationship with Everton Football Club will prove to be an invaluable source of youthful players for the future.

 

We wait – and we will learn - of what's to come for Lincoln City FC….