Sunderland recently made the surprising decision to put all of their players and non-playing staff on the Government's Furlough scheme amid the off-the-field crisis. 

This will mean that 80% of their wages are covered by the Government until football is to return, although they also revealed that the players and staff would be paid in full, which hints that the Black Cats are paying the remaining 20% of the monthly wages.

Speaking in a letter to the club's supporters on Sunderland's official website, Stewart Donald praised the club's non-playing staff for their contribution over the years.

"It is no secret that our non-playing staff have been through an incredible amount over the last few years. Despite countless redundancies and minimal job security, they have worked tirelessly for the good of the club and each other.

"They have made a huge difference in turning around the club’s finances, so it is only right that we have taken the decision to ensure all staff affected by the furlough process will receive full pay. Their hard work, dedication and understanding continues to drive the club forward."

The Black Cats owner also revealed the reasoning as to why the Sunderland players have been placed on the scheme as well, and is hoping that the club's supporters can understand the situation that Donald is faced with during a difficult period of time for a number of clubs across the UK, with the off-the-field crisis worsening.

"Had they been on the wages of years gone by, it would have been right of me to ask them to contribute, but they are not. They will also be affected by the pandemic. We had two unbudgeted Wembley appearances last season and we will use these funds to ensure that like their colleagues, they do not suffer at this time.

"I hope our fans can see that the conclusions we have drawn are fair and in line with where our club finds itself today. These decisions have all been made with the best intentions."

Sunderland are currently sat seventh in the League One table, but are just three points adrift of second-placed Rotherham United heading into the conclusion of this year's league campaign.

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The Verdict: 

Plenty of Sunderland fans will be pleased that Donald has come out and provided some clarity on the situation at the club during this difficult period.

Donald has his fair share of critics, but it's good to see him stating his reasons as to why so many of the club's staff and players were placed onto the Furlough scheme.

Sunderland will be hoping that they can hit the ground running when they do return to action though, as they have a real chance of winning promotion back into the Championship.

If they can do that, then I see no reason as to why they won't make a timely return to the second tier this season under Phil Parkinson's guidance.