Whelan Calls For Changes

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has called on the Premier League to implement stricter financial regulations.

Whelan has revealed he has written to Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore suggesting a limit on borrowings in the wake of Portsmouth's financial plight.

Portsmouth are battling to avoid going out of business and their situation has left many clubs fearful for the future.

Wigan supremo Whelan has proposed clubs should not be allowed to borrow 25 per cent of their annual turnover to prevent clubs accruing massive debts.

Whelan told The Times: "I sent a letter to the Premier League, saying, 'Can we have an agreement that we can only borrow 25% of our individual club's turnover?'

"There should be a limit on borrowings - not as a set amount, but as a percentage of turnover.

"They have to do something about it."

Portsmouth were granted a stay of execution at the High Court last week over an unpaid tax bill, but administration remains a real danger.

Whelan admits he is saddened by Portsmouth's plight and concedes paying massive salaries to players cannot continue.

"What has gone on at Portsmouth is a crying shame for football and for their loyal band of supporters," added Whelan.

"It just comes down to desperation to stay in the Premier League.

"Some of the salaries I've read about - whether the figures are accurate or not - make you cringe.

"It's not easy for clubs, but the ones that take the risks sometimes come a cropper."