Leicester have released an angry statement in retaliation to the news they face a possible points deduction after allegedly breaching financial rules.
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Leicester accused of financial breachChampionship side hit back with statementEverton & Forest already deducted pointsWHAT HAPPENED?
The Foxes have been referred to an independent commission by the Premier League, which also alleges that the club failed to submit audited financial accounts, reports. The Championship club could be hit with a "hefty" points deduction next season if found guilty.
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The Championship side said in a statement: "Leicester City is surprised at the actions the Premier League has taken today. The Club is extremely disappointed that the Premier League has chosen to charge LCFC now, despite the Club’s efforts to engage constructively with the Premier League in relation to the matters that are the subject of this charge, even though LCFC is not currently a Premier League club.
"LCFC remains willing and eager to engage constructively with the Premier League and the EFL to seek the proper resolution of any potential charges, by the right bodies, and at the right time. The Club continues to take careful advice about its position and, if necessary, will continue to defend itself from any unlawful acts by the football authorities, should they seek to exercise jurisdiction where they cannot do so, as occurred earlier this year.
"LCFC has repeatedly demonstrated its commitment to the P&S rules through its operating model over a considerable period, achieving compliance while pursuing sporting ambitions that are entirely credible given the consistent success that the Club has achieved in that time, both domestically and in European competition. As we continue to represent the Club’s position, we will continue to fight for the right of all clubs to pursue their ambitions, particularly where these have been reasonably and fairly established through sustained sporting achievement.
"The Club thanks its supporters for their understanding in this matter and for their continued support for our team, whose success on the pitch during the final weeks of the season remains our primary focus."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The King Power Stadium club are just the latest team to face punishment from the English top-flight. Manchester City have been hit with 115 charges for breaching financial rules, while Everton and Nottingham Forest have both been been deducted points recently. Everton had 10 points taken away but that punishment was reduced to six following an appeal while Forest were docked four points this week. Chelsea are also said to be facing a large points deduction for breaking financial regulations.
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Currently second in the Championship, Leicester will hope to keep up their fight for promotion back up to the Premier League this season. They will then hope to fight off any possible points deduction if they make a return to the top tier.