"The labourer is worthy of his hire" is maxim which was formulated centuries ago to dignify those who had to sell their labour in order to earn a living.

It is a noble sentiment which seems to have passed by those in charge at York City.

I don't care how hard-up City are, using players without paying them, whether they agree or not, is nothing other than naked exploitation.

If City are in such dire financial straits, then the sooner they go part-time and start conducting their business with some level of decency the better. I for one do not want to support a club which takes advantage of players desperate to remain in the game.

Presumably if City can opt to use players without remunerating them, then fans can watch matches without paying.

Stephen Dalby,

Irwin Avenue,

York.

Updated: 10:39 Wednesday, September 08, 2004