West Bromwich Albion could lose points, having been charged with breaching EFL financial rules.
West Brom deny breaking rules after EFL charge
Off-field distractions are the last thing West Brom need at this stage of the season, with James Morrison’s side fighting for their lives in the Championship, but on Monday morning it emerged they have been charged with breaching EFL financial regulations.
However, the Championship side quickly denied any wrongdoing, issuing a statement which read: “West Bromwich Albion acknowledges media reports relating to the club’s compliance with the EFL’s Profitability & Sustainability (P&S) rules.
“The group realizes that it has fully complied with the P&S rules.
“Albion understand the fans’ concerns and thank the fans for their unwavering support for the club, whose success on the pitch during the last four games of the season remains our absolute priority. It would be inappropriate for the club to comment further at this time.”
John Percy also shared what he knows about the situation in a report by The Telegraph, which revealed that West Brom had appointed finance director John Pelling, formerly of Sheffield Wednesday, to ‘resolve’ their finances earlier this year.
The Owls are dealing with their own financial problems as they plan to take over, and could face further bankruptcy themselves if the new owners do not pay £15m for Dejphon Chansiri.
Pelling has worked at Wednesday, Nottingham Forest, Bristol City and Stoke City most recently, leaving his position as Head of Finance there in the summer of 2025.
Interestingly, the Baggies are trying to postpone punishment until next season, as they currently sit just two points off the Championship relegation zone, despite turning things around under Morrison’s leadership in the last month or so.
Should they be found guilty, Albion could receive a points deduction, transfer ban or fine, although the breach is believed to be serious, slightly exceeding the loss limits.
As of July 2022, West Brom’s net loss is £55.6m, more than the £39m limit over the three-year reporting period, although that figure is not set in stone, as it does not include money spent on the women’s club, school and community development.
Leicester City have already suffered six points this season, leaving the Foxes in deep danger of relegation for the first time since 2009, as they are four points adrift of safety.
The hope will be that West Brom do not suffer the same fate, with Morrison’s side sitting perilously close to the relegation zone, despite a seven-game unbeaten run in the Championship.
