FL Issues Second Agents Report

The Football League has issued its second six-monthly Agents’ Fees report. It revealed that the 72 clubs had spent a total of £5,024,789 in the period from June 2004 to December 2004.The Football League has issued its second six-monthly Agents’ Fees report. It revealed that the 72 clubs had spent a total of £5,024,789 in the period from June 2004 to December 2004.

Speaking at its launch, respected FL chairman Sir Brian Mawhinney reflected on an increase of £3.6million compared to the first six months of the year.

In calling for further steps to encourage more transparency, Sir Brian said: “In my own view the deals which involve agents do need to be more transparent and this report is a step in that direction.

“Since the first report there have been more discussions about the role of agents in the game, and the very fact that our member clubs took the lead in this respect has started to have an effect on the whole issue of agents in football.

“This report covers a period during which the transfer market is traditionally busy as clubs, including those whose divisional status has changed, shape their squad for the new season.

“Therefore these figures were always likely to be higher than for the previous six months and I would expect that pattern to continue.

“Nevertheless, too much money is leaving football through payments to agents. The purpose of this report is not to say that all agents are bad but to help them begin dialogues with their supporters where necessary.

“However this report does strengthen the argument of those who believe that football needs an effective regulatory framework to ensure a level playing field.”

To see a full copy of the report, please click here