Queens Park Rangers’ players have agreed a 25% wage deferral to help support the club through the current economic challenges (via qpr.co.uk). CEO Lee Hoos told the club’s official website: “I would like to publicly thank the players for the way they have worked with us for the best interests of the club.”
He went on to praise the group for not taking the easy route and focussing on their own personal circumstances “but, in doing so, pose a significant risk to the future of the club.” The Hoops’ last league fixture took place on March 7, a win at Preston North End and at present, there has been no date set for the resumption of the Championship.
Here is how a sample of the club’s supporters have responded to the news.
Marvellous gesture from the players during these extraordinary times pic.twitter.com/Vekot27c2S
— Peter Hamm (@PeterHamm10) April 28, 2020
Think a decent move by the players to provide financial assistance when it is likely very much required.
— Ken Whitelaw (@whitelawkr) April 29, 2020
???
— Nick Oliver (@nickoliver71) April 28, 2020
Massive.
— Vamos QPR (@Vamos_QPR) April 28, 2020
Were you pleased to hear the news the players have agreed to a wage deferral?
Yes
No
Others have been less impressed by the news, pointing to the fact that a deferral has been agreed rather than a pay cut.
A deferral is only a delay in payment . They will still get all their monies. Unlike the least paid staff who are getting 80% of their money. Not quite so marvellous for me
— Norm (@QPRNORM) April 28, 2020
To be honest , not that impressed . Don’t see how a deferral overly helps . It’s just debt
— Hayes1909 (@Boringname500) April 28, 2020
What do we think?
Most of those who have replied are proud of the players and believe it to be a great gesture whereas others have expressed their concerns at the fact the club will have to pay the money back further down the line. The full extent of the impact this current health crisis will have on the sport remains unknown and in our view, only time will tell whether this move will be enough to help the club through these uncertain times.