EFL minnows Barrow are reportedly offering their players FOUR times more money to LOSE to Chelsea than if they record a shock Carabao Cup win.
And the stunning revelation has called into question the integrity of the competition.
League Two Barrow were handed a dream draw away at Stamford Bridge in round three of the domestic cup after beating Derby on penalties in their previous tie.
But now according to The Telegraph, the match has raised concerns.
The newspaper claims Barrow’s bonus schedule shows the players would receive £250 if they somehow secured a victory in West London on September 24.
However, they are set to bank a whopping £1,000 each if they lose the match.
This therefore could imply a significant additional reward for defeat – and the possibility of incentivising underperformance, even if last season’s runners-up Chelsea are the heavy favourites.
The EFL declined to comment but it is thought the organisation spoke to the Bluebirds to clarify an explanation – even though the bizarre bonuses do not appear to break any specific regulations.
SunSport also understands the bonus sheet contained errors and has since been rectified – with the club wanting to reward their players for playing a top-tier team with an appearance fee, rather than offering a ‘bonus’ for losing.
Bonuses must be agreed between the club and its players before being submitted to the EFL before the start of the season – but the EFL do not have jurisdiction over them.
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It is reported that Barrow’s players will receive £250 each for any wins in rounds one to five of the Carabao Cup.
Even winning the final at Wembley would only bank the players an extra £1,000.
However, the deal also offers £1,000 if they lose to a Premier League club from round three onwards – and £750 for defeat to a Championship side.
In the FA Cup, things are far simpler.
Barrow have agreed to pay out £400 for a round-one win, then £800 for round two.
By round three and beyond, that figure increases to £2,625 per win per player.
Again, defeat to a Premier League team would ensure a £1,000 bonus – and £750 if a Championship club knock them out.
Barrow are currently third in League Two after an impressive start to the campaign.
Their three wins and a draw from five matches has Stephen Clemence’s side on ten points – two behind leaders Doncaster.
SunSport has contacted Barrow for comment.
