EURO INJURIES IMPACT CALEY JAGS ACCOUNTS
Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC have recorded a deficit of £21,391 in the year to 31st May 2016. In his report, chairman Kenny Cameron, highlights the main cause as a costly spate of injuries stemming from their European debut.
The chairman flagged up that the Europa League Cup ties with Romanian side Astra Giurgiu resulted in injuries for ten players; which was added to when centre half Gary Warren needed surgery following an injury sustained in the opening Premiership match of the season. He thanked all the supporters that had made the long trip to Romania for making it a memorable time for all in attendance and also those that turned out in good numbers for the first European game in the Highlands.
“Our percentage of wages to turnover increased from 58 per cent the previous year to 65 per cent, due to the increased number of players, including replacements for those injured” he explained. He is confident that the increased costs for players will not be repeated in the next accounts.
He added that the transfer of Ryan Christie to Celtic had brought in funds to assist in the injury crisis, adding: “If there was ever an opportune time to suffer our worst ever injury crisis, then this was the time.”
Turnover fell by £256,000 due to finishing lower down the league table and not having the financial boost of the Scottish Cup victory the preceding year.
Season ticket sales rose by 20 per cent, but there was a similar downturn in match day walk-ups. More than 4,000 children took advantage of the club’s free tickets initiative.
Mr Cameron accepted that the season had been disappointing compared to their cup-winning one but added: ”Considering the challenges posed by our injury situation, it was more than acceptable under the circumstances.”