INJURY RISK


they stand in the tunnel prior to a game? I would suggest very few. Why? Probably because their focus will be on the game itself, their role within it tactically, their motivation to produce a high individual performance and their love of simply playing a football match. There is probably a sub-conscious comfort in that most players believe that even if they do suffer an injury then they will be supported by and provided for in a medical sense by the club. However, the worrying reality is that in a time of economic hardship, clubs are always looking to reduce costs and it would appear that the payment of medical insurance is a popular area in which to make such cuts.


The implications of such a decision are that a club must meet the cost of any consultation, scan or operation as and when required. An injured player therefore finds himself at the behest of the club as to whether this assistance can be provided and indeed how quickly.


In theory this may not sound problematic, especially to those outside the game. However if you consider the possibilities that a club may not be able to finance medical expenses that run into thousands of pounds or that a club may not be keen to outlay on a player not in favour, soon to be


PFA Scotland’s Jack Ross discusses medical cover How many players consider the risk of injury as


out of contract or a youngster not thought to be on the verge of the first team then it becomes clearer where the difficulties arise. It is becoming increasingly common for players to approach PFA Scotland with complaint over medical provision. While there are a number of honourable clubs who continue to look after their players in a highly professional manner there are some who are becoming negligent in their approach to providing comfort for players with regards to the risk of injury.


The upcoming implementation of minimum standards from worldwide football bodies will apply pressure to ensure that appropriate adjustments are made. In the meantime, it may be a good time to think outside the box and examine the possibilities of providing a collective medical cover through consultation with the league bodies, potential providers and the Players Union. Players in Scotland have always been commended for their whole-hearted approach to the game. This must continue without fear of lack of support should unfortunate serious injury occur!


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“HOWEVER, THE WORRYING REALITY IS THAT IN A TIME OF ECONOMIC HARDSHIP, CLUBS ARE ALWAYS LOOKING TO REDUCE COSTS AND IT WOULD APPEAR THAT THE PAYMENT OF MEDICAL INSURANCE IS A POPULAR AREA IN WHICH TO MAKE SUCH CUTS.”


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