Raith Rovers have agreed to extend the deals of their entire squad until the end of June so that players can continue to utilise the government’s furlough scheme.
All but nine of Rovers‘ first-team are out of contract next month and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding when the 2020/21 season will begin has made offering extensions impossible.
Only Regan Hendry, Kieran McDonald, Fernandy Mendy, Jack Smith, Brad Spencer, Dylan Tait, Lewis Vaughan, Kyle Bow and Quinn Coulson are tied to the club until 2021.
But chairman Bill Clark has signed up all of his stars until June 30, even those who may not be in manager John McGlynn’s plans for next term in the Championship.
While Raith sources acknowledge that it only represents an extra three weeks of salary for most players – the standard expiry date for Rovers contracts is June 10 – it is hoped the decision will provide players with a some extra stability and time to weigh up their options.
It mirrors moves made by Dundee and Ayr United, who the Fifers will be joining in the second tier next season.
The entirety of Raith’s playing and coaching staff have been on furlough since the end of March, allowing the club to claim back 80 per cent of the wages up to a maximum of £2500 per month for each employee.
Meanwhile, Rovers have confirmed that talks have been held with the SPFL and Inverness with a view to ensuring the Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Cup Final is played.
It has been confirmed that the McDiarmid Park showpiece, due to take place on March 28, remains ‘postponed’ rather than cancelled.
However, the viability of completing the competition will depend on when Scottish football resumes and the subsequent fixture congestion in the 2020/21 campaign.
A Rovers spokesperson confirmed: “Discussions have been held with Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC and the SPFL about playing the postponed Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Cup Final.
“Both clubs have expressed a desire for the fixture to be played.
“It was acknowledged that the ultimate decision would have to be taken once it became clear when football in general would recommence in Scotland, and would be dependent on any fixture congestion.
“It was agreed that the fixture remain postponed for the present time with a decision to be taken as soon as circumstances permit.
“Tickets already purchased by Rovers supporters will be valid for any rescheduled game, and should the fixture be cancelled all monies paid by fans will be refunded.”
