Nottingham Forest appeal could now ‘make a mockery of the Premier League’ – O’Rourke
Nottingham Forest being officially relegated after the Premier League season has finished would “make a mockery” of the English top flight.
That is the view of senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke, who was speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast about Forest’s appeal against their four-point deduction.
Forest were given the four-point penalty in March following a breach of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) over three years up to and including the 2022-23 season.
The Midlands club exceeded their allowable losses by £34.5million and were due to be handed a six-point deduction – but saw the punishment reduced by two points due to the club’s compliance in the investigation.
Nevertheless, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side confirmed on 25 March that they have appealed the decision.
Premier League’s ‘integrity is in question’ amid Nottingham Forest latest
The Premier League have set 24 May as a backstop date for the league table to be finalised – five days after the end of the 2023-24 season.
Forest currently sit 17th – level on points with Luton, who are inside the drop zone.
Speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track Podcast, O’Rourke said: “It can’t go on beyond 24 May – it would make a mockery of the league.
“The whole integrity of the Premier League would be in question.
“I think as soon as this appeal from Nottingham Forest is heard, a quick decision has to be made so everyone knows where they stand.
“It’s the same for Everton, once they get a second verdict for their second charge – whatever that may be.
“It affects the fans more than anybody.
“You could be celebrating survival on the final day but relegated two weeks later because of a points deduction.
“Let’s have these things decided on the pitch, during the season, rather than off it.”
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