Bolton Wanderers' home game against Brentford has been called off after its players refused to play in protest at unpaid wages.
The troubled club "regrettably" confirmed less than 24 hours before the scheduled kick-off time that the Championship fixture would not be taking place on Saturday. The EFL described the developments as "disappointing" in a statement on its website, adding that Bolton is now guilty of misconduct and will be referred to an Independent Disciplinary Commission.
Their players had released a statement earlier on Friday that they would not be fulfilling the remaining two matches in the season due to monies owed — a decision that won the backing of the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA).
Read | PFA stands by players
Both the squad and coaching staff members have still not been paid for March and first-team players reportedly refused to train for 48 hours this month in protest after club workers also went unpaid.
"This situation is creating mounting mental, emotional and financial burdens for people through no fault of their own," the statement from the players read. "The mental pressure has affected some people to the extent that they feel they are unable to perform their jobs sufficiently.
"These are unprecedented circumstances and are affecting every aspect of our lives, placing great strain on ourselves and our families."
Former Watford owner Laurence Bassini last week agreed a last-minute takeover of the club to prevent them going into administration. The deal hoped to lead to the settlement of a High Court case related to an unpaid tax bill.
Bolton's relegation to League One was confirmed last week by its 2-0 home defeat to Aston Villa.
Comments
SHARE