According to a source, Everton face an unprecedented 12-point deduction due to possible violations of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability criteria.
Since March, when the Premier League sent the Toffees to an independent tribunal alleging excessive losses, a dark shadow has hung over Goodison Park.
The division’s FFP rules state that teams can only incur losses of up to £105 million over a three-year period, however the Toffees are said to have incurred losses of £371.8 million during that time.
As a result, one of the Premier League’s ever-present teams, who have barely kept up by the skin of their teeth in each of the last two seasons, could face hefty punishments.
The Premier League has proposed that Sean Dyche’s team be punished up to 12 points if the violations are verified, which would be the highest deduction in the tournament’s history, according to The Telegraph.
Only Middlesbrough (three points in 1997) and Portsmouth (nine points in 2010) have previously faced similar penalties for such transgressions, with the former canceling a game against Blackburn Rovers without permission due to an illness that decimated their team.
Boro’s three-point deduction played a significant role in their relegation, while Portsmouth’s deduction came after they were forced into administration, and the 2008 FA Cup winners were also unable to save their top-flight status.
Everton, on the other hand, is “robustly” defending their position and insisting that they have not broken any rules, according to a previous club statement: “Everton strongly contests the allegation of non-compliance and is entirely confident that it remains compliant with all financial rules and regulations.”
“Everton is ready to vigorously defend its position before the commission.” Over the years, the club has submitted information to the Premier League in an open and transparent manner, and it has consciously decided to behave in good faith at all times.”
News of a potential 12-point docking came mere hours after the club announced the death of chairman Bill Kenwright, but head coach Dyche is only viewing the possibility of a looming deduction as just another distraction.
“I think there are loads of stories out there nowadays, particularly things of this type. But at the end of the day, the commission will decide. And when they do, we’ll find out,” Dyche told reporters ahead of Sunday’s Premier League game with West Ham United.
“To be honest, ever since I’ve been here there’s been pressure. There’s pressure on all sorts (of things) around Everton Football Club. We’ve been trying to stay calm within lots of different challenges here. I think we mostly have done.
“We’re trying to get things right on the field or better, and we’re also trying to improve in other areas of the club.” To be honest, there’s a lot of noise here.
“It’s just a part of it.” (We’re) attempting to turn the hubbub into a more positive feeling about the club – not just the team, but the entire club. That is something we are working on. Every time you think you’re almost there, something else comes up. It’s just one of those things.”
Everton are now 16th in the Premier League table with seven points, so a 12-point punishment would send them to the bottom of the pile with a minus five next to their name.
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