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Tough life for Rochdale in League One

Kieran Maguire of the PriceofFootball looks at the recently released accounts of Rochdale FC for 2018/19. He notes: Rochdale accounts show just how tough life is in League One. They lost £23k a week last season and that was after player sales of £1m. Much lower TV money a major factor. Their accounts for 2019/20 will show the importance of a decent cup draw... and replays.'

'Majority of League One clubs losing money. Potential abolition of FA Cup replays and Carabo Cup will make this worse. Dale's net losses about mid table by League One standards.'

Rochdale wage bill up 12%. Its 99% of income excluding transfer fees reinforcing just how challenging conditions are for lower league clubs. Average weekly wage is £1,824.

Concerning for Rochdale is that they spent £600k more than they earned from day to day trading. Shareholders stuck in £30k but rest of deficit funded from running down the bank balance. However, despite a tough year, they still have £400k in the bank which reflects a well run club in earlier years.

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