Bournemouth have become the latest Premier League side to reverse their decision to place non-playing staff on furlough leave.
Bournemouth Reverse Decision to Furlough Non-Playing Staff
Third Club to Make a Reversal
The Cherries are now the third Premier League side to reverse their decision on using the government’s job retention scheme for non-playing staff.
Both Liverpool and Tottenham had announced that they intended to use the scheme. However, shortly after their announcements, after much criticism, they reversed their decision.
Clubs across the country are using the furlough scheme for both playing and non-playing staff as a temporary cost-cutting measure. The scheme allows for the government to pay 80% of an employee’s wages up to £2,500, while the company continues to pay the other 20%.
Club Statement
Bournemouth announced the reversal of their decision via a statement on the official club website. It read: “The ongoing Covid-19 (coronavirus) pandemic has created huge uncertainty across the world.
“We are rapidly coming to terms with the stark reality of what this virus means, both for the health of the global population and for business in all industries, who are being affected by its financial implications.
“Football is undoubtedly one of those industries. As things stand there is no return date for the 2019/20 Premier League season, meaning our revenue is depleted but our outgoings remain unaffected.
“With this in mind, earlier this month we announced that a number of staff at AFC Bournemouth were being temporarily furloughed, and that we would utilise the Government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
“These measures were not taken lightly, given the operational pressures placed on clubs in such uncertain times.
“However well-placed our intentions were, we are aware of criticisms levelled at Premier League clubs applying for this scheme.
“We have listened to our supporters and have reversed our decision to furlough these employees.”
Relegation Battle When Football Returns
Bournemouth will be in the midst of a relegation battle when football does return.
Eddie Howe’s side are currently 18th in the Premier League on 27 points. However, they are level on points with Watford and West Ham United, who occupy the two places above them.
As a result, Howe will be hoping that his players will return in the right mindset to help prevent relegation.
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