MORTON’S entire workforce have agreed to go on furlough leave as the club fights for its future in the coronavirus crisis.

Cappielow bosses announced the move tonight, saying all players and staff had signed up to the emergency measure, following other clubs who had already joined the UK Government’s job retention scheme.

They will be paid 80 per cent of their monthly wage, up to a maximum of £2,500, from the state.

Meanwhile the club youth academy has also been hit, with staff released.

Chief executive David MacKinnon said: “The UK Government’s support in respect of the 80% job retention scheme is very welcome, and I can confirm we have been able to come to an agreement which will see all employees placed on furlough.

“I would like to put on record our gratitude to Golden Casket and the Rae family, for funding wage commitments until monies are received via the Government’s scheme, and of course the manager, coaches, players and staff for their 100% agreement.

“We have been in close communication with Morton Club Together regarding how best to tackle the current challenges, and they have been working hard to co-ordinate additional funds from their members and beyond.

“This effort is greatly appreciated, and additional monies received will ensure we are in good shape to support the first team squad once the game that we all love returns.”

On the youth academy’s plight, MacKinnon said: “As has been well documented, the SFA funding for Project Brave was significantly reduced recently, due to non-compliance to FIFA standards of the 3G pitches the club’s Academy rented from Inverclyde Council.

“This massive impact on monies coming into the club, and the ongoing cash burden to plug the increased Academy funding shortfall, has unfortunately put us in a position where in order to safeguard the future of Greenock Morton FC, we have had to cancel our agreements with our Academy casual workers and staff.

“These measures are a consequence of our time, but we will come through this stronger with focus, commitment and a resolve that defines us all.”

See tomorrow’s Tele for exclusive reaction to this breaking story.