The Premier League has referred Everton and Nottingham Forest to an independent commission due to alleged breaches of the league’s profit and sustainability regulations. Each club in the top flight, including these two, was required to submit financial accounts for the year ending in the summer of 2023 by the 31st of December, 2023. This submission was necessary for the league’s financial review process.
If the independent commission finds the clubs guilty, they could face severe consequences, including potential points deductions. This situation is particularly critical for Everton, which is already grappling with the repercussions of a previous penalty. The club exceeded the allowed overspending limit of £105 million over three years by £19.5 million, leading to a 10-point deduction. This penalty initially plunged Everton to 19th place in the league standings, though recent wins and a draw have since improved their position to 17th.
The independent commission’s previous findings accused Everton of “irresponsible” financial conduct in their pursuit of on-field success, thereby breaching the league’s profitability and sustainability rules (PSR). In response, Everton has filed an appeal against the points deduction and criticized the Premier League’s regulations for their lack of preventative guidelines against multiple sanctions for the same financial periods.
Nottingham Forest, facing a potential breach charge for the first time, released a statement confirming their awareness of the Premier League’s charge. The club expressed its intention to fully cooperate with the league and anticipates a fair and prompt resolution.
Both clubs have a 14-day window to formally respond to the complaints. The specific penalties they might face are yet unclear. Everton’s next fixture is a home FA Cup replay against Crystal Palace, while Nottingham Forest will play an away replay against Blackpool in the third round.
