The management of Kogi United football club has placed its players on reduced salaries following their disappointing 0-2 loss to Shekarau Babes FC in Kano on Saturday.<br /><br />In a statement released by the club&rsquo;s chairman, Abdul Sule, it said the measure to slash the players&rsquo; salaries by 40 per cent became necessary as they are becoming comfortable with the club&rsquo;s treatment which has not reflected in their recent performance. <br /><br />Sule said his management through the state government has been encouraging the team with a near perfect welfare package despite the current economic challenges facing the state.<br /><br />Sule however said the development would remain until the boys step up their games and put Kogi United back to where it belong.<br /><br />&ldquo;This step is necessary for the boys as they&rsquo;ve not been living up to expectation, their recent performance in the league calls for worry which demand for them to sit up,&rdquo; begin the former Stationery Stores striker as quoted in the statement.<br /><br />&ldquo;We are doing everything for them to be in better condition, you understand the present situation facing the state economically. <br /><br />&ldquo;Kogi United is one of the clubs in the country that&rsquo;s not owing its players but if they are not justifying the treatment, such action is needed,&rdquo; he said.<br /><br />Kogi United are currently sixth on the group A1 log having garnered nine points.<br /><br />Wale Mustapha <br />