The dispute in Britain between the Professional Footballers Association and the Premier League over the distribution of television money intensified in bitterness yesterday.

PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor believes the Premier League have attempted to turn the spotlight onto his personal salary in order to gain public support. His annual remuneration has been quoted as £450,000 sterling, but he says it is £300,000 plus benefits.

"It has been suggested that why can't I manage on £50,000 a year. Well I could, but it's like saying Chelsea chairman Ken Bates should manage on that and give the rest of his money to the local poor.

Taylor added: "We feel this is really political, as Ken Bates has confirmed by saying 'we don't want a union'.

"They talk about greedy players, but it's the chairmen who are being greedy."

Taylor insists the PFA will not be intimidated by threats to dock the pay of footballers who vote for strike action.