Liverpool Echo issues new info on Everton FFP situation, ‘extra complications’ raised
The Premier League will not have the final say on whether Everton should be docked points if found guilty of breaching financial regulations, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The outlet’s online edition provided an update on Everton’s Financial Fair Play case on Wednesday (25 October) after The Telegraph had earlier reported the Premier League has recommended a 12-point deduction in the most severe outcome.
However, while league chiefs can ask for points to be deducted, it does not necessarily mean that will be the punishment Everton face.
An article written by Joe Thomas and Chris Beesley read: “The ECHO understands that the independent commission – not the Premier League – holds full sway when it comes to the final decision-making process.
“In the event of a breach being found, the next step would be that the commission decide upon any sanctions and if any sanctions such as a points deduction were agreed upon then it would also be at the discretion of the commission to decide upon which season to impose them, whether that be current, retrospectively (the charge relates to the 2021/22 season) or in a future campaign.
“Given that Norwich City, Watford and Burnley were relegated that season and the latter have subsequently been promoted again that potentially brings extra complications, although the gap between Everton and Norwich City was 17 points and the Blues finished 15 points above Watford.”
Drawn-out
It is worth noting that the 12-point deduction mentioned really would be the worst-case scenario, and even then it is based purely off reports.
Everton have vowed to defend their position, with a loss of earnings as a result of COVID-19 being used as a possible exemption.
The Toffees could also be hit with a fine and/or a transfer embargo, which would of course be far from ideal, but being docked 12 points would surely lead to relegation – and therefore an almighty financial hit far more damaging than any fine.
Teams relegated at Everton’s expense in the period they are said to have breached financial rules are seeking vast damages, but Burnley are now back in the Premier League.
It makes for a complicated case that will no doubt drag on as both sides present their cases. In an ideal world, Everton will be given a slap on the wrist, a small fine – relatively speaking – and a suspended sentence when it comes to any sort of points deduction.
If the Premier League manage to sway things, though, it could well result in Everton’s first season at their new stadium hosting second-tier football.
In other Everton news, a broadcaster has dropped an “embarrassing” verdict following the reports that emerged on Wednesday (25 October).