Manchester United legend Gary Neville has name-dropped Leeds United in an impassioned discussion about "the main structural flaw in English football" – the disparity in funding between the Premier League and the EFL. 

All English professional football has been suspended until further notice due to the Covid-19 pandemic and it remains unclear if, how, and when the 2019/20 season will be concluded.

The lack of football has caused financial issues for football clubs up and down the country – particularly those in the EFL.

The EFL has provided a relief package and the Premier League has pledged extra money in support but it still looks set to be a very difficult period, with many clubs being forced to furlough staff and ask players to take wage cuts or deferrals.

Speaking on'The Debate Sky Sports, Neville suggested that the current crisis has highlighted one of the key issues with English football.

He said: "What we are seeing is the main structural flaw in English football, which I have called for government intervention on for many years.

"We have the most amazing Premier League, but you’ve got the bottom club in the Premier League gaining £100million and the top club in the EFL, Leeds United, getting £3million then you must see the disconnect and the disproportionate financial reward that is put through football.

"It needs resetting."

It may not be an issue that directly impacts the Whites next season, however, as they look well set to achieve promotion to the Premier League this term.

Marcelo Bielsa's men are top of the Championship and have a seven-point gap over the play-offs with nine games remaining.

Can you name every Leeds United front-of-shirt sponsor from the last 15 seasons? Have a go now!

 

 

The Verdict

Leeds fans may not like Neville from his playing days at Old Trafford but they will surely appreciate the point he is making here.

The English system has issues and ones that the EFL often feels the brunt of.

Hopefully, one of the positives to come out of this crisis will be changes to the system to ensure the wealth is better shared.