Wigan Athletic old-boys are furloughed

Sunderland have furloughed first-team players - including former Wigan Athletic stars Will Grigg and Max Power - as well as contracted academy players and backroom staff.

By Paul Kendrick

Published 7th Apr 2020, 15:32 BST

Updated 7th Apr 2020, 15:34 BST

Will Grigg and Max Power during their Latics days

The Black Cats became the second Sky Bet League One club after Portsmouth to utilise the Government's job retention scheme to cover 80 per cent of employees' wages, up to a maximum of £2,500 a month.

Sunderland added there was "no intention to ask any players or staff to take a wage reduction or deferral on their salary" and that all employees will be paid in full.

A statement on the club's official website read: "Sunderland AFC can today confirm that its first-team players, contracted academy players and backroom staff have recently been placed on furlough leave due to the ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"A small number of staff, including manager Phil Parkinson, continue to work from home, and the club's priority remains the health and wellbeing of its players, staff, supporters and local community during this unprecedented period."