Leicester City’s hearing over their three alleged breaches of Profit and Sustainability Rules could lead to a points deduction that moves them closer to the relegation zone
Leicester City could learn if they are to receive a points deduction for possible breaches of Profit and Sustainability Rules before the end of this month.
City’s hearing has reportedly been heard over the past couple of weeks and while both the club and the Premier League are keeping quiet over the matter, manager Marti Cifuentes suggested an outcome could emerge before the new year.
Charged in May, City are alleged to have exceeded the loss threshold for the three seasons up to and including the 23-24 campaign, with two further charges against them for failing to co-operate and for failing to send their financial accounts on time.
While the case has been brought by the Premier League, it’s expected that if City are found guilty and are handed a punishment in the form of a points deduction, the EFL will be able to administer it.
There’s an element of the unknown around the possibility of a points deduction, and it’s adding to the nerves in the fanbase.
Asked for the latest at his press conference on Thursday, Cifuentes said: “I might sound a bit boring. The club always updates me when there is any real news. I have constant communication. I’m sure if there is something to say, the club will say it. But I have no news.
Perhaps during December (there will be an answer), perhaps there will be some news, but I don’t know exactly any timelines.
“I understand (why fans are on edge). All of us, everyone in the club would like to know but in reality there is not much we can do.
“From my position as a manager, my job, together with the players, is to make sure we prepare the next game and that we focus on the things we try to control.
I can understand that the fans would like to know, but I’m sure that as soon as there is news, the club will update us.”
City need improvements on the pitch so that any possible points deduction does not drag them into a relegation battle.
They head to Derby on Saturday having lost their last two matches, both in which they trailed 3-0 at half-time.
It’s not been the most pleasant week of my life, that’s for sure, but that’s the life of a manager,” Cifuentes added.
“You need to deal well with the good moments and the bad moments, and you’ll have seen that I’m someone who tries to be quite balanced.
“When there are good times, it’s important to keep the feet on the ground. When there are tough moments, you need to make sure you keep the positive energy.
We understand the club is in a situation where we knew it would take some time. We need to navigate through this and try to improve the things we can improve, and that includes me as a manager.
