THURSDAY’S article on ex-player Thomas Gravesen reminded me why I no longer take an interest in professional football (Recalling Thomas ‘Mad Dog’ Graveson, October 17). Gravesen, according to your article, was being paid £40,000 weekly (plus bonuses) in 2008.
I am 64 and currently work a 38-hour week for £17,000 PER YEAR. Why working men and women continue to fund the obscene payments handed to footballers mystifies me, although I realise Gravesen’s wage would be considered small beer these days.
We regularly read about the widening gulf between working people and the highly paid. In that context should we not be questioning the disgusting amounts paid to footballers (and other sports people), at least here in Scotland?
I know I am not alone in my views on this – witness the tiny numbers who turn out to spectate. Pitiful attendances, with the exception of Celtic and Rangers – and much of their support has very little to do with sport. The game does not justify the hype it attracts in the media, but the dodgy financial dealings certainly should.
Jim Butchart
The Borders
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