Newcastle, Leeds & Aston Villa’s Premier League rivals could face points deduction after alleged FFP breach

Everton have been referred to an independent commission by the Premier League over an alleged breach of Profitability & Sustainability rules (FFP) for the period ending with the 2021-22 season.

Following a 10-month investigation, in which Leeds United and Burnley wrote to the Premier League questioning whether the Toffees had broken any rules having recorded losses of £371.8 million over the previous three years, has ended in an alleged charge.

Under Premier League rules, clubs are permitted to lose a maximum of £105m over three years. Those who break its Profitability and Sustainability rules can be fined or deducted points. Sean Dyche’s side currently sit 15th in the table, two points above the relegation zone.

A Premier League statement confirmed that Everton had been charged under Rule W.82.1, the same rule that Manchester City are alleged to have breached.

Premier League’s statement in full

A Premier League statement read: “In accordance with Premier League Rule W.82.1, the Premier League confirms that it has today referred an alleged breach of the League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules by Everton Football Club to a Commission under Premier League Rule W.3.4. The assessment period for which it is alleged that the Club is in breach is the period ending Season 2021/22.

“Commissions are independent of the Premier League and member clubs. The members of the Commission will be appointed by the independent Chair of the Premier League Judicial Panel, in accordance with Premier League Rules W.19, W.20 and W.26.

“The proceedings before the Commission will, in accordance with Premier League Rule W.82, be confidential and heard in private. Under Premier League Rule W.82.2, the Commission’s final award will be published on the Premier League’s website. The League will be making no further comment until that time.”

Everton’s response

“Everton Football Club is disappointed to hear of the Premier League’s decision to refer an allegation of a breach of Profit & Sustainability regulations to an independent commission for review,” a statement read.

“The Club strongly contests the allegation of non-compliance and together with its independent team of experts is entirely confident that it remains compliant with all financial rules and regulations.

“Everton is prepared to robustly defend its position to the commission. The Club has, over several years, provided information to the Premier League in an open and transparent manner and has consciously chosen to act with the utmost good faith at all times.

“The Club will not be making any further comment at this time.”

The Blues’ annual accounts for the 2021/22 season are due to be made public next week.

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