As per John Percy of The Telegraph, Reading are set for a heavy nine point deduction following their breach of financial rules set by the EFL. Like Derby County, they are in talks with with the EFL over an agreed decision, in accordance with regulation 85. The news comes just days after the chaos of the situation at Derby, with the club set to be hit with a 12-point deduction following their decision to enter administration.
As the Championship table stands, Reading sit 14th on ten points. Therefore, if the nine points deduction did take place, they would plummet down the table, with just one point to their name. It would certainly hand The Royals an uphill battle to survive, but not an impossible one. The gap between themselves and survival would only be seven points.
Reading Set for Points Deduction After Breaching Financial Rules
A Growing Problem in the EFL
Over the last couple of years, more and more clubs have struggled when it comes to finances in the EFL, leading to a complete collapse in stature and chaos in and around the various divisions. It is clear that the Covid-19 pandemic has made a significant impact, and perhaps more should have been done to provide cover for those that struggled throughout.
The punishment for the likes of Derby and Reading has also come into question. When the Premier League’s big six attempted to take the money and run to the European Super League, they were given a slap on the wrist, with just a large fine to pay. Yet, in the EFL, things seem to run more harshly, with clubs handed points deductions, and almost made an example of at times.
As time progresses, more and more clubs may begin to struggle in an attempt to recover from the damages of the pandemic.
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