‘Unfair’ second points-deduction verdict shared as Everton appeal news drops – journalist

Alex Crook has suggested the outcome of the points deduction appeal at Everton will be crucial when it comes to a possible second penalty from the Premier League.

The talkSPORT journalist explained that if the club lose their appeal against the ten-point deduction, and are hit with another one on top, relegation will become a real possibility.

Crook also hit out at the Premier League for their lack of transparency when it comes to the appeal outcome, as it is unfair to fans who invest so much in the club.

Speaking live on talkSPORT [19 February, 07:41] Crook shared: “The reason this is so important, if they do manage to get that points penalty reduced, not only could it help their league position, it will help them when it comes to the second charge they’ve been hit with by the Premier League.

“If they lose the appeal, therefore, then there’s every chance they get more points taken away, and then I think a first relegation in 73 years becomes a real possibility.

“Huge days ahead for Everton, but I do feel sympathy for them. There seems to be a lack of clarity and lack of communication from the Premier League and the independent panel.

Why can’t they just give them a date? This affects a lot of people’s lives, not just the manager and the players, but more importantly, the supporters who have invested so much in their football club, it’s very unfair on them.”

Will Everton receive another Premier League points deduction?

Given the outcome of the first Premier League investigation into the club’s first profit and sustainability breach, there is every chance the second investigation comes to a similar result, with another points deduction on the cards at Goodison Park.

As we await a verdict on the initial appeal, the club will be hoping to receive points back from the initial ten taken away, although the threat of a second deduction still looms.

Jamie O’Hara fumed recently that the potential for the relegation battle to be determined by points deductions is a joke, suggesting they should only be given at the start of the season rather than mid-way through

Whatever the outcome of the appeal, Everton will be aware of the second investigation, which may take them straight back to square one in terms of their position in the table depending on the harshness of the second deduction and outcome of the appeal.