Richard Scudamore to accept £5m farewell gift as Premier League hail his 'exceptional contribution'

The Premier League have revealed Richard Scudamore will receive a controversial £5million parting gift after a discussion held among representatives of all 20 clubs.

Each team was asked by the organisation’s remuneration committee to contribute £250,000 in recognition of the outgoing executive chairman, who steps down next month after almost 20 years in charge.

There was no formal vote but the clubs eventually approved the idea at a meeting this morning and Scudamore will receive the payment over three years as he continues to operate in an advisory capacity for his successor, Susanna Dinnage.

In a statement, the Premier League sought to justify the bonus – which has been roundly condemned by a variety of fans’ groups including the Football Supporters’ Federation – by highlighting three key areas, starting with highlighting the value of denying Scudamore a chance to work with a rival League or organisation.

“It was vital that a comprehensive set of non-compete clauses were extended, to ensure the best protection for the future of the Premier League,” said the League.

“It was agreed that it is crucial for the League’s ongoing success that Richard’s unique knowledge and experience remain available in an advisory capacity.

“The payments are in recognition of the outstanding work Richard has carried out over the last 19 years.”

Fulham and Wolves were among several clubs thought to harbour reservations about such a significant sum being paid to an administrator and earlier in the day, the FSF said: "Premier League clubs have always told fan groups that budgets are planned in advance and there's not a surplus of cash lying around from their extremely lucrative TV deal.

"In the meantime loyal football supporters continue to be inconvenienced by fixture changes to fit TV schedules, often losing out on travel costs or struggling to get to and from games in the first place.

“Now it appears clubs can stick their hands down the back of the sofa and find £250,000 at a moment's notice.

“Fans strongly oppose the ‘golden handshake’ and we urge clubs not to make a decision which is hugely unpopular with supporters."