West Brom go into loss

West Brom went from a £26m operating profit in 2017 to a £13m operating loss in 2018. Turnover was down from £138m to £125m. The main reason for the reversal in profits was a £17m lower prize money from the Premier League and a £13m increase in wages. The merit award was reduced for finishing 20th compared to 10th in the previous year.

The club spent more on its playing squad than in any previous season. Player trading in 2017/18 was made up of purchases of £46m and sales of £8m.

At £102m broadcasting accounted for 82 per cent of income. Commercial income was up from £9.8m to £12.6m.

Total wage costs accounted for 74 per cent of income, marginally above the recommended Uefa limit.

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The Political Economy of Football V2

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