David Ornstein responds to Everton points deduction question with ‘no indication’ verdict

David Ornstein has offered his verdict on the possibility of Everton receiving a points deduction this season, saying there has been “no indication” that the Toffees will yet be punished.

The Toffees had been expected to appear before an independent commission on 25 October having allegedly broken the Premier League’s financial fair play rules, but reports have emerged that the process has begun in secret behind closed doors [Daily Mail, 18 October].

So far there has been no official time frame placed on when any sanction would be imposed, should the Toffees be found guilty and Ornstein has said that there is yet to be any indication as to which way the decision may go.

Replying to a question in his weekly Q&A on Thursday (19 October) he said: “No indication yet as to whether Everton will be punished or if they are then to what extent. So the chances are not growing or receding. There are reports today suggesting the case will conclude by next Thursday and then a decision communicated at a later date.

“Everton feel they have been working alongside the Premier League to fully comply with the rules, so this seems to have come as a surprise to them and they’ll be hopeful of clearing their name.

“Some of their rivals are of the opposite view and want to see them punished for such heavy financial losses.”