BBC Sport journalist shares ‘sink the club’ Everton verdict ahead of Financial Fair Play hearing
A points deduction would hopefully not “sink” Everton, according to BBC Sport’s chief football writer Phil McNulty.
It would, however, be a “savage blow” for the Merseyside outfit amid their current behind-the-scenes issues, McNulty noted.
Everton have been referred to an independent commission by the Premier League for alleged breaches of financial regulations, with their hearing set for 25 October, according to BBC Sport.
“A points deduction – and remember Everton are strenuously denying any breaches of financial regulations – would certainly be a savage blow and make life very difficult given all the other challenges facing the club after the recent dreadful strategies of the owner and board of directors,” McNulty wrote for BBC Sport.
“I would sincerely hope, however, that it would not sink the club. As I said, though, Everton are confident they have not breached financial regulations and intend to prove it.”
Nervous times
Everton supporters have been put through enough worry in recent years, with the Toffees massively struggling off the pitch, leading to major struggles on it.
But Financial Fair Play (FFP) issues are another monster entirely, with the club desperate to clear their name amid the allegations of breaching FFP rules.
The club have denied the claims, with all associated with the Merseyside outfit hoping that is the truth, with the consequences of breaching the rules certain to be severe.
Given the poor start to the new Premier League campaign under Sean Dyche, a points deduction is the last thing Everton need.
It could also have a major impact on the impending takeover by 777 Partners, with the US investment firm certain to be frustrated and anxious if indeed there are financial irregularities going on at the Merseyside club. For now, however, it is a waiting game for the Toffees, with the hearing scheduled for later this month.
In other Everton news, the Toffees takeover could be over before it begins as an “explosive” 777 Partners update emerges.