A second points deduction for Everton now looks inevitable after Nottingham Forest were docked four points by the independent commission on 18 March, according to Matt Hughes.
The Daily Mail journalist reported in their print edition [19 March, page 71] that the Toffees will likely claim double jeopardy in their defence after their previous six-point deduction.
Everton may also point to the lack of severity in Forest’s punishment given their bigger breach, as they look to avoid a potentially significant punishment.
Everton points deduction now inevitable after Nottingham Forest
The threat of a second points deduction has been the overarching concern ever since Sean Dyche’s side won their appeal to reduce the initial ten-point deduction to six. If, like Forest, Everton are now handed another four, it may feel like somewhat of a waste of time.
With the verdict to be heard in April, there remains the possibility that Everton could appeal again after their last attempt was successful, but that would likely mean the final verdict going beyond the end of the season which isn’t ideal for anybody.
As things stand, a four-point deduction would see Dyche’s team drop to 17th, one place outside of the relegation zone, but only ahead of Forest on goal difference, in what will be a boost to the likes of Luton and Brentford.
Martin O’Neill warned that Everton could be in deep trouble as a result of the points deductions, not only in terms of the league table but the effect they are having on the mindset of the players at Goodison Park.
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