Gordon Taylor’s open letter to PFA members – in full

Gordon Taylor, the under fire chief executive of the Professional Footballers’ Association, has released an open letter to members promising a “full and open review” of the union’s “structure and operation”.

Taylor, 73, has been in charge of the PFA for 37 years but now looks to be going through the most difficult period of his tenure after more than 200 of its members were this week reported to have signed a letter calling for him to step aside.

Read more: Gordon Taylor: How much is PFA chief paid and why is he facing calls to step down?

Critics say the PFA has let down those who need it most and that its running has become increasingly outdated.

Here is Taylor’s letter in response – in full:

Dear Members,

Over the last few days you may have seen some criticism levelled at the leadership of the PFA in the media. We have listened to what has been said about us and taken the time to think carefully about what is in the best interests of our organisation and our members.

I have dedicated the last forty years of my life to professional football. I am extremely proud of the work we do, supporting our members, whether that’s through training and coaching programmes, or promoting diversity and equality in the sport.

I am happy to defend our record – including on issues such as mental health, diversity and player welfare – but I am the first to admit that there are always areas we can improve.

We owe it to you, our members, to hold ourselves to the highest possible standards. We believe we do. However, I am adamant that criticism must not be swept under the carpet and instead addressed head on.

It is important that we are transparent, committed to constantly improving and restless in our mission to support you.

We will, therefore, be recommending to the PFA’s Board of Trustees and Management Committee that an independent QC conducts a full and open review into the structure and operation of the PFA as the trade union for professional footballers in England and Wales.

We will work closely with both the Board of Trustees and Management Committee to finalise the parameters and timeline of the review, at which point we will update you.

We are proud of the work that we do with professional players across all leagues. As you know, we are focused on working with you on some of the most pressing issues in our sport, details of which can be found below.

If you have any questions about the work of the PFA and how we can support you, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 0161 236 0575 or info@thepfa.co.uk.

Best wishes,

Gordon Taylor OBE.