Dons players had already discussed wage deferrals

Russell Martin said his MK Dons players were eager to 'do their bit' by deferring their wages this month.

Pete Winkelman confirmed this morning (Monday) the first team would be deferring a quarter of their earnings for the month, and could do it again in the future.Manager Martin said the players had discussed how they could help support the club financially during the coronavirus pandemic when so many other staff were put on furlough.

He explained: "The gulf between what the Premier League and Championship players earn compared to the rest of club staff is huge. At our level, things are different, the difference is not as big but it's still there.

"The club put staff on furlough early, so that will help the state of the club's finances when we can come back, but the players want to do their bit as well.

"Obviously they contribute anyway, but the players have got together and discussed this. I think everyone is aware of the pressures and that pay-cuts are almost inevitable in most industries at the moment.

"There will some clubs who will do things differently, and some clubs could be in trouble. In terms of our club and the things that go on around it, we employ a lot more than most do, so we're all willing to make sure we do our part."

>> Jordan Houghton and wife Harley helped raise more than £2,000 for the NHS, surpassing their initial target of £1,000. To donate, click here.READ MORE: Government's furlough scheme helped save 500 jobs at Stadium MK