Exclusive: Ex-striker claims major pay cut in store for Rangers 27-yr-old
Noel Whelan has claimed Jon Flanagan may need to ‘fight for his next job’ after it was announced the defender would leave Rangers this month.
The former Aberdeen and Leeds United striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, suggested the financial implications of the coronavirus makes it worrying times for out-of-contract players.
The club released a statement last week announcing that the 27-year-old would leave at the end of his contract on 31 May.
Flanagan was joined by lifelong Gers fan, Andy Halliday, and goalkeeper Wes Foderingham in his departure from Ibrox.
The decision comes after the SPFL announced last week that the Scottish Premiership would follow the lower leagues in being curtailed.
When asked by Football Insider what the future holds for the former Liverpool right-back, Whelan said: “I do feel for any player that has not got a club right now.
“Circumstances at every single club have changed. Financially, can people go in and pay the wages he was getting?
“He might have to realise that he is going to have to take a pay cut. Players may need to fight for jobs. Nobody knows the financial impact this is going to have on clubs.
“It is worrying times for players out of contract but this is where agents will have to earn their money.
“Players might have no say. They might have to just take a job like most people in life.”
Sporting director, Ross Wilson told the club’s website: “Andy, Wes and Jon have applied themselves excellently during my time here and I wish them nothing but the best in their next chapter.”
Flanagan made 10 appearances in all competitions this season.
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