 |
| New Everton Director of Football Kevin Thelwell poses for a photo at Finch Farm on March 04, 2022 in Halewood, England. |
Everton’s director of football, Kevin Thelwell, says the club is united by a sense of injustice following the 10-point deduction for breaking Premier League spending rules.
Everton have dropped to second bottom in the Premier League ahead of this weekend’s visit of Manchester United, and have indicated they will appeal the penalty handed down by an independent commission.
Thelwell echoed the views of the club’s acting chief executive, Colin Chong, in arguing the decision was too harsh.
“Colin’s video message last Friday echoed my views and the sentiment of everybody here at Finch Farm. We are shocked by what we believe is a wholly disproportionate and unjust ruling by the Premier League’s commission,” said Thelwell.
“We cannot say anything further on the commission’s findings until the conclusion of the appeal process.
“But the clear and tangible impact on our league position because of that ruling is clear to see in the Premier League table. We return to action five places lower than the 14th position held following our hard-fought victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
“The three points from that victory may no longer be accounted for in the table - nor seven other hard-earned points amassed during this season. But what does remain in place is the unity, focus and determination that helped earn those points on the field of play - now supplemented by the additional fuel of what we believe is a wholly disproportionate ruling.”
Everton were punished because their spending surpassed the threshold of allowable losses over a three year period up to 2022 - the club found to be £19.5 million above what is permissible.
The Merseyside club acknowledged exceeded the amount allowed but said that mitigating factors such as the impact of interest rates on stadium expenditure should be reconsidered upon appeal.
In the meantime, Sean Dyche’s side must turn its attention to ensuring their punishment does not mean they fail to escape the bottom three. Everton could be out of the relegation zone as soon as Sunday if they beat United.
“We are rallying in the face of a sporting sanction in the only way we can - and that is our focus and hard work in supporting the team in delivering to their fullest on the pitch,” said Thelwell.
“We go into this weekend having secured six wins from our last nine outings in all competitions. The team has displayed a level of effort, camaraderie and bravery that is synonymous with this club in earning those victories.
That spirit remains strong - unwavering. Sean and the players are fully focused on the work that lies ahead. And everybody at Finch Farm is united.”