A new addition to the list of clubs considering legal action against Everton has surfaced, joining Burnley, Leeds United, and Leicester City. Everton faces a ten-point deduction for violating the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules up to the 2021-22 season, resulting in their current relegation zone status with four points. Despite expressing shock and disappointment, Everton plans to appeal this record-breaking points penalty.
The Premier League investigation was triggered by Leeds and Burnley, who, concerned about potential spending rule violations during the pandemic, jointly submitted a letter signed by Leeds chief executive Angus Kinnear and Burnley chairman Alan Pace. According to The Athletic, a report from the Daily Mail indicates that Leeds, Burnley, and Leicester City are collectively pursuing a £300 million lawsuit against Everton.
Following the verdict, senior figures at Leeds, Leicester, and Burnley affirmed their commitment to legal action in discussions on Friday. Burnley, particularly convinced of Everton’s financial rule breaches during their preceding relegation, pledged support. Southampton, a Championship team, is reportedly also contemplating legal action.
Leeds, Leicester, and Burnley have preemptively written to Everton’s prospective new owners, 777 Partners, warning of their intention to sue for damages in the event of a guilty verdict. Everton, expressing shock and disappointment, deems the commission’s points deduction as “wholly disproportionate and unjust.”
They plan to appeal, asserting openness and transparency in their dealings with the Premier League and disputing any lack of good faith. The club questions the severity of the imposed sanction and will closely follow similar cases involving the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules.