Sheffield United have furloughed some of their ‘predominantly casual’ staff because of the coronavirus pandemic.
However, the Blades will continue to pay all of their staff in full so will therefore not be using the government’s retention scheme at this time.
Newcastle, Tottenham, Bournemouth and Norwich have already announced they will be using the scheme – which covers 80 per cent of wages up to £2,500 per month.
Runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool also recently announced they had taken up the scheme which would have put around 200 non-playing staff on temporary leave.
However, the Reds reversed their decision and issued an apology to fans after receiving heavy backlash.
In a club statement, Sheffield United said employees who are unable to perform their regular duties due to the shutdown of football are the ones who have been affected.
“Sheffield United Football Club has informed its staff of the decision to furlough some employees who are unable to perform their regular day-to-day duties at this time,” the statement read.
“These are predominantly casual employees but include a small number of permanent staff.
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“The club confirms that permanent and casual staff will continue to be paid in full, despite the challenges of dealing with the impact of Covid-19.”
The Blades, who were pushing for Champions League qualification before the coronavirus halted the footballing calendar, have not ruled out using the job retention scheme in the future.
The statement added: “Those furloughed have been given the green light to sign up for the NHS volunteering scheme or similar initiatives in lieu of regular employment at Bramall Lane or other club sites.
“Senior officials at the club are aware of the Government’s Job Retention Scheme.
“At a later date, after the full financial impact of the situation can be more accurately quantified, the club will assess whether or not to participate in the JRS.
“All at Sheffield United Football Club would also like to pass on the best wishes to everyone, locally, nationally and internationally, affected by the current pandemic.”
