‘We have no hesitation in bringing further charges against Mr Dai’

THE English Football League

(EFL) has said that they have ‘no hesitation’ in bringing further charges against Reading owner Dai Yongge.

Thousands of fans took to the pitch to get Reading’s game with Port Vale postponed on Saturday in protest of their owner.

A statement by the EFL reads: “As Reading FC supporters are only too aware, it has in recent months become increasingly clear that Mr Dai Yongge is no longer in a position – or does not have the motivation – to support the Club financially as he did following the change of control in 2017.

“In November 2023, the EFL called for the disqualification of Mr Dai following the failure to fund the deposit account to cover player and staff salaries following repeated breaches of EFL Regulations. This was ultimately rejected by an Independent Disciplinary Commission and a financial sanction was imposed instead.

“His continued failings mean that once again the Club’s hardworking staff have no reassurance as to payment of wages and demonstrates a clear disregard for his obligations as a director of the Club.

“In respect of this issue, the League will now consider all available options it has under the Regulations and will have no hesitation in bringing further charges against Mr Dai.”

The EFL is urging Dai Yongge to fund the cub adequately or to make ‘immediate’ arrangements to sell his majority share.

The statement continues:

“In the meantime, and for the sake of the future of Reading FC, its staff, supporters, and local community we urge Mr Dai either to fund the Club adequately or to make immediate arrangements to sell his majority shareholding to appropriate new owners so everyone can move forward with renewed optimism.

“For our part, we will work with Mr Dai, his team, and the Club plus any potential purchaser to navigate and meet the requirements of the Regulations as quickly as is physically possible and bring an end to this difficult period for all parties.