'We have an obligation to help', insists Wigan Athletic chief

The break in action caused by the Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated the huge gulf between those at the top of the footballing pyramid and those at the bottom.

Many, including former Latics boss Paul Jewell, have voiced their concern that some clubs may even go to the wall because of funding issues caused by the lack of matchday income.

And Cook says more has to be done now to protect those in need.

“I think for a period of time now the distance between the Premier League and the EFL has been growing by the year,” the Latics manager said.

“Obviously with the TV money, and all the rights that go with that.

"We’ve seen Bury going out of business which...I don’t think people can imagine what that does to a community.

“Bury has got some absolutely fantastic people, football supporters, and whatever’s been done at the top level, they don’t deserve to not have a team to follow.

“Football on a matchday becomes a place where people can go, and we have an obligation to those people to make sure clubs don’t go under.

“Surely offering a bit of help to ensure that if this thing does take three months, or four months, or five months, clubs don’t feel that pressure.”

When asked whether more should be done to pass money down the leagues, he added on Sky Sports News: “Without a shadow of doubt.”