The human cost of administration

Portsmouth's 10-point deduction has been good news for Coventry City in their relegation battle but the human cost of football club's going into administration was revealed on Wednesday as Pompey made a number of staff redundant and asked others to defer wages or go part-time.

Not the players of course, one of whom is currently earning £30,000+ a week but who will be protected by the football creditor rule.

'These measures are painful for everyone involved with the club, but they are essential for Portsmouth's survival, which is our main objective,' read a statement from the administrator Trevor Birch.

'They are in no way a reflection of the performance of the club`s hard-working staff, who have remained loyal and supportive throughout this difficult time.'

Administration has often been talked of as a way for the Sky Blues to make a fresh start from their financial woes but, aside from the fact that that is never guaranteed, the price that has to be paid by employees and creditors is not worth any benefits that such a move might bring.

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