Players take a hit in sponsorship crisis

London: The Football Association's troubled financial situation has led to a review of how much they can afford to pay England players for sponsorship appearances.

England have had a successful working relationship — albeit without a signed contract — for the past four years with agents 1966, who receive an agreed percentage of the FA's commercial income to divide among the squad. Now it wants to reduce the players' share because of their serious England sponsorship problems, highlighted by the flawed, fruitless search for a lead backer to replace Nationwide.

Representatives 1966 are waiting to hear from the FA about their proposals for restructuring the players' agreement.

The big worry for the FA will be any ongoing dispute over the squad's share adding to their chronic difficulties in attracting England team sponsors, who will want guaranteed player appearances.

The Wembley hierarchy will also be aware the beginning of the end for former FA chief executive Adam Crozier was when his regime signed up lucrative sponsorships before having any agreement in place with the players.