West Ham squad to defer part of their wages while owners inject £30m into club to battle coronavirus costs

West Ham's players have become the second Premier League squad to defer part of their wages while owners David Sullivan and David Gold have injected £30million into the club in order to combat the financial impact of coronavirus.

The club have also accepted manager David Moyes's offer of a 30 per cent reduction in his salary, along with directors Karren Brady and Andy Mollett.

The Hammers follow Southampton, who announced on Thursday that players, coaching staff and directors would all be deferring a portion of their salaries for April, May and June.

Sullivan and Gold, who do not take a salary, have also deferred interest payments on shareholder loans, while all non-footballing staff will be paid 100 per cent of their salaries. No West Ham staff have currently been placed on furlough.

Vice-chairman Karren Brady said: “I would like to say a big thank you to David Moyes and his backroom team, our captain Mark Noble and our fantastic squad of players for the commitment and determination they have shown to offer their help and support.

‘’I would also like to thank the shareholders whose support through this injection of equity once again demonstrates their commitment to the future of the Club.

“The Joint-Chairmen and I are truly proud of how they and everyone at the Club has stepped up to play their part in this situation – we are in it together to support one another, our community and our Club. That is the spirit of the West Ham United family.

“There is still a long and difficult road ahead but we remain committed to doing everything we can to support those most in need, and together we will come through it stronger.”

Captain Mark Noble, who represented the players in talks with the club, said:“As players we have been in constant dialogue with the Club since the situation around Covid-19 emerged and I am proud that our entire squad have made clear their strong desire to play our part in helping to support others through this situation.

“At West Ham United, we are one team and our priority reflects the Club’s aim to help ensure the staff get 100% of their salaries while we are unable to play our matches. We continue to do all we can, collectively and individually, throughout this period for the benefit of those around us, our colleagues, our supporters and our community.

“On behalf of the players I send our best wishes to all of our supporters and their families, especially those who have been directly affected by the virus, and I look forward to the day that we can all be back together again.”