Wigan face three-point deduction after failing to pay players and staff for FOURTH time
WIGAN are trying to avoid an automatic three-point penalty after failing to pay players and staff on time.
The Championship strugglers missed the wage run for a fourth time this term but are due pay this week.
The Latics have a suspended sentence from their past offences and the EFL are monitoring the situation.
Chairman Talal Al Hammad had to pay a month’s money into an account in advance for salaries.
The players’ patience is thin but a points deduction will hurt their survival bid after the 3-0 loss at Burnley left them bottom.
Al Hammad was unavailable for comment and the EFL deflected enquiries.
Vincent Kompany‘s Championship highfliers extended their lead to 13 points from second-placed Sheffield United with their decisive victory over Wigan, who had Omar Rekik sent off early.
The Clarets sealed the three points at Turf Moor thanks to a brace by Nathan Tella and a goal by Lyle Foster.
Wigan manager Shaun Maloney addressed the club’s wage problems during his post-match interview.
Maloney told BBC Radio Manchester: “The lead-up to the game and preparation definitely affected not just the players but the support, staff, stadium staff and training ground, so it was an emotional couple of days, very difficult.
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“It’s a position I don’t think any of us expected to be in so it’s really difficult. It was difficult to train and prepare – the things off the pitch become bigger.
“For the last half hour the fans sang after me and the team and for what the players gave I am super-proud.
“When the CEO relayed it to us and the players it was the same reason as they put in the statement. We’re hoping it’s a short-term situation.”