Arnett were misrepresented in union argument – Thelwell

Former Premier League champions Arnett Gardens have come out in their defence following claims made by former player Newton Sterling that the club was barring players from talking to union representatives.

General manager of Arnett Gardens Football Club, Peter Thelwell, told STAR Sports that the club was misrepresented when Sterling made claims in a Gleaner article recently that stated the players were advised by lawyers not to speak to any union representative.

"Arnett Gardens position is that we can in no way prevent a player from talking to a union rep, it is as simple as that," said Thelwell.

Thelwell went on to add that he has since spoken to Sterling and both parties agreed to straighten out the issue.

"I wouldn't want this to go any further, putting Arnett Gardens in a negative light," added Thelwell.

Facing a daunting task

In the meantime, Sterling went on to add that his organisation, 'Friends of Football', are facing a daunting task by some clubs in forming a union, as some players are fearful of being ostracised if they entertain talks.

So far clubs such as Dunbeholden, Cavaliers and Humble Lion have given the group a listening ea,r with others yet to be contacted due to the coronavirus pandemic.

For Arnett Gardens, Thelwell said his club will not oppose the unionisation of the players.

"We have no opposition to it; the players are free to talk to a union rep and get unionised if they wish," Thelwell said.

Chairman of the Arnett Gardens Football Club, Mark Golding, added that he has not considered the matter; however, he is keeping an open mind to the situation.