Leicester hit with Premier League charge
LEICESTER risk a points penalty after they were charged with breaking Premier League spending rules — but it appears unlikely to damage their promotion bid. The Foxes were yesterday referred to an independent commission ‘for an alleged breach of profitability and sustainability rules and for failing to submit their audited financial accounts to the League’. The charge relates to the 2022-23 campaign, when Leicester were relegated from the top flight. Despite a recent wobble, Leicester are second in the Championship with a game in hand on leaders Leeds and have a strong chance of winning automatic promotion. Given this is a Premier League charge and Leicester are currently an EFL club, not to mention the time required to determine a punishment, it appears improbable that points could be taken from them this season. Yet their prospects next season could be instantly compromised by a points deduction. Everton have been docked six points and Nottingham Forest four this term for PSR breaches. A club spokesman said: ‘Leicester City is surprised at the actions the Premier League has taken today. The club is extremely disappointed that the Premier League has chosen to charge LCFC now, despite the club’s efforts to engage constructively with the Premier League in relation to the matters that are the subject of this charge, even though LCFC is not currently a Premier League club. ‘The club continues to take careful advice about its position and, if necessary, will continue to defend itself from any unlawful acts by the football authorities, should they seek to exercise jurisdiction where they cannot do so, as occurred earlier this year. ‘LCFC has repeatedly demonstrated its commitment to the P&S rules through its operating model over a considerable period, achieving compliance while pursuing sporting ambitions that are entirely credible given the consistent success the club has achieved in that time, domestically and in European competition. ‘As we continue to represent the club’s position, we will continue to fight for the right of all clubs to pursue their ambitions, particularly where these have been reasonably and fairly established.’