Premier League asks Cardiff City to explain Tan bonus offer

Vincent Tan and Richard Scudamore

The Premier League has asked Cardiff City for their observations after owner Vincent Tan offered players a cash bonus to avoid relegation.

The Malaysian withdrew his offer of £3.7m to the squad when it was made clear it was in breach of league rules.

The bonus promise was made before Sunday's 1-0 defeat by Tottenham at White Hart Lane.

That result left the Bluebirds in 19th place - three points behind 17th-placed West Brom having played a game more.

The Premier League has strict regulations over payment of players, stipulating that a player's benefits will be set out in his contract and strictly adhered to.

Every club must lodge their bonus schedule before the start of the season.

It is thought unlikely the Premier League will take action because the offer was withdrawn promptly once it was realised the payments would have broken its rules.

Speaking after Sunday's loss at Spurs, Cardiff manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said an earlier pep-talk from controversial owner Tan would inspire his side to Premier League safety.

Tan addressed players and manager in the team hotel on Saturday to offer "encouraging words" and, it was later revealed, a bonus payment if they avoided an immediate return to the Championship.

Cardiff, promoted as champions last season, have won only one of their last 12 league games.

Cardiff City chairman Mehmet Dalman said Tan had no executive powers to offer bonuses to players.