The salaries of players in the Premiership have climbed by 65 per cent since 2000 to an all-time high, a new survey reveals.

The average player in the top flight now earns €970,000 basic pay, which represents a rise from the approximate €590,000 which clubs paid their stars six years ago.

The survey, conducted by The Independent and the Professional Footballers' Association, reveals strikers are the best-paid players in the Premiership on an average €1.15 million, with goalkeepers the relative paupers on an annual €760,000. Bonuses vary and are on top of the basic salary.

Almost 400 players across the spectrum of Premiership and Football League participated in the survey, which also uncovered details of earnings in the lower leagues.

Championship stars received an average of €280,000  (up 53 per cent), League One players earned €96,000 (up 24 per cent) and League Two footballers were paid €70,000 (up 28 per cent).

The study reveals how Premiership players typically reach their earnings peak between the ages of 27 and 28. Premiership youngsters do not earn nearly as much.