Player welfare is high on the agenda of the RFU

The Rugby Football Union has voiced its concerns over Premier Rugby's plans to expand its fixture list from 2009-10.

Club chairmen agreed on Wednesday to freeze the salary cap at �4m and add fixtures to generate extra income.

But that would require RFU agreement, and it said: "We are concerned at the reported plans to increase the number of Guinness Premiership matches."

The RFU is unhappy that this would mean clubs withdrawing from the proposed successor to the EDF Energy Cup.

In a statement, it said: "The RFU supports Premier Rugby's plans to bring its cost base into line with revised revenue projections likely during the recession.

"[But] it will be requesting clarification and further detail on these reported proposals before their presentation to the scheduled Professional Game Board meeting on 22 January.

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"It is important that any such proposals are in accord with the terms of the new eight-year RFU/PRL agreement signed in October 2007, and which has started well since it took effect in July 2008."

RFU management board chairman Martyn Thomas offered his sympathy for the clubs, but said they must adhere to the structures currently in place.

"We understand that these are difficult times for all clubs, professional and community," said Thomas. "It is important that all clubs budget carefully and prudently during the current major recession.

"However, we must ensure that we maintain the stability of our playing structures and continue to deliver on player welfare issues.

"We are looking forward to receiving the detail of their proposals from Premier Rugby next week.

"These will be discussed by the Professional Game Board on 22 January and the RFU management board on 28 January."

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