Firstly, let’s deal with HMRC.
To make sure football finances do not get out of hand, HMRC need to be consistent in their approach. For the bigger clubs a limit needs to be set on the maximum amount of PAYE/NIC/VAT that can be outstanding. Once that limit is breached (say £5m?) then immediate proceedings need to start without any delay. And HMRC need to pursue all the way through the courts.
As I have said in an earlier post, a large number of clubs need to be closed down. Clubs need to be run commercially and owners will take debts much more seriously if they are enforced with vigour. It has the added benefit of players wages being a little more subdued….
So let’s move onto the fans. I suggest you ask the following questions and make sure you get the right answers!
- Who owns the ground?
- Who owns the parking at the ground?
- Who owns the training ground?
- How much is owed to HMRC?
- How much is owed to the bank?
- How much is owed to other clubs for deferred transfer fees?
- What has the club “pre sold” in advance of the money arriving? (season tickets, TV money etc)
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