November 17, (THEWILL) – Everton have been hit with a massive 10-point deduction by the English Premier League for breaching profitability and sustainability regulations.
The Toffees were referred to an independent commission in March over alleged violations during the 2021/2022 season, with the hearing taking place last month. It has now been confirmed Everton will be deducted 10 points, dropping them to 19th in the table and just above Burnley on goal difference.
According to the EPL, the independent commission determined Everton’s loss for the relevant period was £124.5 million, exceeding the £105 million threshold allowed under the rules. The club admitted breaching regulations but disputed the extent of the loss calculated by the League. However, the commission ruled a sporting sanction was warranted and handed down the 10-point deduction which takes immediate effect.
Everton expressed shock and disappointment at the “wholly disproportionate and unjust” punishment. The club maintains it has cooperated fully and acted in good faith throughout the process. Everton also believe the sanction is unduly harsh compared to the evidence submitted and plan to appeal the decision. Judgements in other profitability cases will be closely monitored.
This is only the second time action like this has been taken since Manchester City were charged with over 100 financial fair play breaches last season. Punishing clubs for profitability breaches is unprecedented in the EPL, despite precedents in the League. Everton’s heavy spending after Farhad Moshiri’s 2016 takeover left them exposed, with cost-cutting unable to sufficiently curb losses of £370 million from 2018 to 2021.
The Toffees’ deduction sees them plunge into the relegation zone alongside Burnley on 4 points. Everton face an anxious wait to discover if their appeal will be successful, or if other clubs receive similar sanctions, as they battle for EPL survival.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
