Everton’s appeal has been heard and their initial 10-point deduction has been reduced to six – a decision that is sure to have huge implications in the Premier League relegation race.
Everton’s Appeal Successful as Points Deduction Reduced To Six
Everton have successfully appealed the decision that deducted them 10 Premier League points after reviewing the financial records of all top-flight clubs for the 2021-22 season.
The rules say clubs can sustain losses of up to £105m in three years or potentially face penalties.
However, Everton reported losses of £124.5million for the relevant period.
Everton admitted to the breach. However, they felt the punishment did not fit the crime as they were ‘shocked and disappointed’ at the punishment that was also described as ‘wholly disproportionate and unjust’.
As a result, Everton were given four points back from the 10 that they were deducted earlier in the season.
Everton Club Statement
The club has since released a statement on the Everton appeal news on Monday 26th February 2024.
“Everton can confirm an Appeal Board has concluded that the points deduction imposed by an independent Premier League Commission in November be reduced from 10 points to six points, with immediate effect.
While the Club is still digesting the Appeal Board’s decision, we are satisfied our appeal has resulted in a reduction in the points sanction.
We understand the Appeal Board considered the 10-point deduction originally imposed to be inappropriate when assessed against the available benchmarks of which the Club made the Commission aware, including the position under the relevant EFL regulations. The 9-point deduction that is imposed under the Premier League’s own rules in the event of insolvency.
The Club is also particularly pleased with the Appeal Board’s decision to overturn the original Commission’s finding that the Club failed to act in utmost good faith. That decision, along with reducing the points deduction, was an incredibly important point of principle for the Club on appeal. The Club, therefore, feels vindicated in pursuing its appeal.”
Everton’s Relegation Battle
Everton are pleased with the appeal and it’s clear to see why. Before today, they were one point above the relegation places. The Toffees will now jump into 15th place – five points ahead of Luton in 18th.
With 12 games to go, Sean Dyche will still be feeling the pressure. That said, he’ll be confident his side can pick up a few points along the way.
If Everton weren’t deducted points, they’d be sitting comfortably in 13th place, on 31 points. Dyche has played some of his best football with Everton this season and many feel they don’t deserve to be in a relegation battle.
Further Everton Punishment Ahead?
Everton can celebrate this result, but the club is set for another punishment for overspending. Everton are awaiting their new Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium.
The construction of their new stadium is likely the reason for their issue.
A decision will be made on Everton’s fate towards the end of the season. However, it will likely result in another points deduction which would drag Everton back down towards the relegation zone again.
Nottingham Forest are also in trouble for the same reason. Both teams could be docked more points which will add to intensity of the relegation battle.
When Do Everton Play Next?
Everton’s next match is against West Ham on Saturday 2nd March at 3pm in the Premier League. The Hammers are in torrid form and are without a win since December.
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