In a decision that has sent fans talking, champions of the Nigeria Professional Football League, Plateau United have slashed players’ salaries by half, following a defeat in a league match.
Plateau were defeated 2-0 by Kwara Utd on Sunday, to the chagrin of the management of the team who have since gone on a public criticism of players and staff of the club.
It is the club’s second home loss in a month after losing earlier to Simba SC of Tanzania in a CAF Champions League fixture.
Plateau have been Nigerian champions for two consecutive seasons but have struggled to consolidate on the continent.
“Plateau United Football Club has placed the entire team on half salary following their poor start to the NPFL after going down 2-nil to Kwara United in Jos.
The General Manager of the Club, Pius Henwan gave the directive while addressing players and coaches of the team,” the club said in a tweet.
Criticisms have greeted the decision with fans of local football calling for more player power and protection, especially in contractual situations.
The NPFL resumed its new season on Sunday, 9 months since a ball was last kicked in the league. The new season will see 20 teams competing for the league title.