Football finance expert Kieran Maguire has suggested the Premier League have been overly aggressive towards one thing Everton have done.
Points deductions and PSR have become buzzwords during the 2023/24 season, tarnishing what should be an enjoyable experience for Evertonians.
Fans are heading to Goodison Park unsure of what an accurate representation of the Toffees’ performance is. Unfortunately, it’s a conversation that cannot be avoided.
Everton have now been docked eight points during the season, and more could be on the way. Per The Guardian, a third hearing concerning their second breach could occur over the summer.
It’s believed the third hearing relates to interest on Everton’s new stadium, something football finance expert Kieran Maguire has tried to tackle.
What has Kieran Maguire said about Everton’s third PSR hearing?
Speaking on the Price of Football Podcast, Maguire outlined what he knows about Everton’s appeal.
“They’ve got to operate in a series system,” he explained.
“From what we understand, the Nottingham Forest hearing is going to start from the 22nd of April. One would presume that, given its appeal, it would take less time.
“Everton have announced they’re going to appeal. They were unhappy with the two points. The Premier League have put out an announcement saying they are going to do all they can to make sure the Everton appeal and verdict will be announced before the final match.
“As a backstop, it could go as far as the 25th of May unless it turns out Everton are five points ahead of the side that’s third bottom. So that’s where we are.”
Maguire went on to suggest that the Premier League are treating Everton’s stadium interest payments too harshly.
“It’s becoming a bit tedious and we’ve got other clubs potentially in the firing line,” he added.
“We’ve also got what looks like a third commission in respect of Everton because the last commission said they didn’t understand the rules regarding the interest charges.
“The Premier League seemed quite aggressive toward Everton in this regard. My view is that it’s a bit harsh, as Spurs were allowed to add their interest costs onto the stadium. There’s a possible case, but it does seem to be very harsh.”
Maguire’s claim could be good news for Everton
Maguire seems to suggest that Everton don’t have too much to answer regarding their third PSR commission.
Hopefully, common sense will prevail, and any issues over the summer can be avoided. Maguire has previously urged the Toffees and the Premier League to bang their heads together to find a resolution.
But, considering prior events, it’s hard to envisage common sense prevailing.
One scenario that cannot occur is the league table remaining fluid after the final ball has been kicked. It goes against all sorts of sporting integrity and will open a can of worms for what is meant to be the best league in the world.
