A FOOTBALL club chairman has defended paying for his players McDonald's burgers for winning matches.

Accrington Stanley FC chairman Andy Holt revealed he occasionally provides his squad with £200 to spend at the fast-food restaurants if they win.

However the English Football League (EFL) has written to Mr Holt stating clubs are required to include full details of payments and cash bonuses in their contracts, under regulation 61.6.

Bonuses form part of a player's deal and must be submitted prior to the start of the season, although exceptions may be made if the EFL are notified in advance.

Mr Holt, who runs the top of League Two outfit, took to Twitter to defend his actions.

He said: "So. Sometimes when we win I give £200, less the £21.37 I get back in change, to Sean to get the lads a Mcdonald's or the like.

"If we lose they get their own. Its just the way we roll.

"Then I receive a letter from the EFL demanding an explanation because McDonald's is not specified in the players contracts.

"You have to wonder what these folk would do with their life if it wasn't for my errors of judgement."

In response to one user, Holt wrote: "I get them a bit of grub out of personal tax paid money.

"I think if I want to buy a burger for someone I should be allowed to."

Replying to another, he said: "It's only the same as paying for a pre match meal.

"I don't for one minute think anything untoward in my actions.

"At least the ELF keep an eye on my twitter feed. I'm relaxed about it."

Accrington have won their previous six games, including a 1-0 success over Notts County on Monday afternoon.

Stanley have 80 points, three ahead of second place Luton, with seven matches still to play.

An EFL spokesman said: "As a result of a communication made by Mr Holt in relation to the payment of additional monies, the EFL has written to Accrington Stanley and asked them for their observations.

"The club has provided its response and the matter will be considered further in due course."