Astle verdict would affect game, says West Brom chief

WEST BROM managing director Brendon Batson has admitted there could be consequences for the game arising from the inquest verdict on the death of former England striker Jeff Astle.

Batson has admitted there could be implications after a coroner ruled that Astle’s death was caused as a result of heading a football.

But Batson stressed the game would have to wait before the long-term implications were known.

‘‘When I was working at the Professional Footballers’ Association, I dealt with Jeff’s family and I attended the inquest on behalf of the club and the PFA,’’ Batson told the club’s website www.wba.co.uk

‘‘Obviously it was not a very pleasant day, but the family are pleased that the verdict is out as there has been a lot of speculation of the causes of Jeff’s death.

‘‘Now that we have the verdict it confirms their worst fears.

‘‘There is a wide implication for football. What that implication will be remains to be seen.

‘‘There has been anecdotal evidence suggesting that players are having brain problems from being professional footballers.

‘‘We now have a link, but this ruling is very specific to Jeff Astle.

‘‘From the report, they are suggesting is that there might be trauma from heading the ball.’’

Former Albion striker Astle died at the age of 59 in January after suffering from a degenerative brain disease.