Blues: We can’t buy players due to league embargo
BIRMINGHAM City have finally issued a statement confirming that they are under transfer embargo.
Reports surfaced in early July that Blues had been placed under embargo by the EFL having failed to convince the Championship’s governing body that they were working within Financial Fair Play guidelines.
Manager Garry Monk has been left extremely frustrated by Blues’ lack of transfer business with just Danish defender Kristian Pedersen arriving thus far during the summer window.
And Blues have now addressed the situation for the first time with a club statement.
It says: “The club has spent several months working diligently to satisfy the EFL.
“Unfortunately and disappointingly the EFL are currently refusing to allow us to make additions which would enable us to strengthen the manager’s squad.
“We are hopeful that a satisfactory agreement can be reached with the EFL as soon as possible to help ensure our continued competitiveness in the Championship.
“We fully understand supporters’ frustrations over this issue in the wake of recent speculation and rumour.
“We share those frustrations.
“The club asks supporters to maintain the fabulous and passionate backing they have given to Garry Monk and the team since the manager’s appointment – it is hugely appreciated and when we have that togetherness and strength in numbers it can make a big difference.
“The Board of Directors are ambitious and are committed to improvement and bringing success to the club, in all aspects on and off the field.
“And supporters can rest assured that we are doing everything in our power to address this current situation. The club will make no further comment. We thank you for your understanding.”
The EFL also addressed the matter for the first time yesterday with a spokesperson telling the BBC the following: “The EFL has been in regular contact with the club throughout the summer and set out on 13 July our requirements in respect of the basis upon which the club would be able to make additions to Garry Monk’s squad.”
Speaking after Saturday’s pre-sea- son friendly against Brighton, Monk – when asked if new arrivals were likely – said: “We’re still waiting for confirmation from the EFL.
“Yes of course [it’s frustrating] but that’s something that’s out of my hands. In the meantime I have to just do what we’re doing and get us ready for the start of the season.”
Monk was named as Birmingham manager on March 4 and steered them to a 19th-place finish last term, securing their survival in the Championship on the final day of the season. Their 2018-19 campaign gets under way at home to Norwich City on Saturday.