Everton could face points deduction due to alleged breach of Premier League FFP rules
By Sean Walsh
Everton have been referred to an independent commission by the Premier League regarding a supposed breach of their financial fair play (FFP) rules.
The Toffees are alleged to have broken Premier League regulations by making a losses of beyond £105m over a three year period.
This breach is said to have occurred during the 2021/22 season and was reported at the time by Burnley and Leeds, who were fighting Everton in the battle against relegation. The Clarets were ultimately unable to beat the drop.
"In accordance with Premier League Rule W.82.1, the Premier League confirms that it has today referred an alleged breach of the league’s profitability and sustainability rules by Everton Football Club to a commission under Premier League Rule W.3.4," the Premier League said in a statement.
"The assessment period for which it is alleged that the club is in breach is the period ending season 2021/22.
"Commissions are independent of the Premier League and member clubs. The members of the Commission will be appointed by the independent Chair of the Premier League Judicial Panel, in accordance with Premier League Rules W.19, W.20 and W.26.
"The proceedings before the commission will, in accordance with Premier League Rule W.82, be confidential and heard in private.
"Under Premier League Rule W.82.2, the commission’s final award will be published on the Premier League’s website. The League will be making no further comment until that time."
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In a statement of their own, Everton said: "Everton Football Club is disappointed to hear of the Premier League’s decision to refer an allegation of a breach of Profit & Sustainability regulations to an independent commission for review.
"The club strongly contests the allegation of non-compliance and together with its independent team of experts is entirely confident that it remains compliant with all financial rules and regulations.
"Everton is prepared to robustly defend its position to the commission. The club has, over several years, provided information to the Premier League in an open and transparent manner and has consciously chosen to act with the utmost good faith at all times.
"The club will not be making any further comment at this time."
Will Everton receive a points deduction?
If Everton are found to have been in breach of Premier League regulations, they could receive a hefty fine or a points deduction.
Should a conclusion to the case come before the end of this season, then Everton may be deducted points from their 2022/23 tally. This would almost certainly relegate them - Sean Dyche's side currently sit in 15th with 26 points, just three more than rock bottom Southampton.