Sheffield United has been handed a two-point deduction by the English Football League (EFL) for breaching EFL regulations by failing to make payments to other clubs during their promotion season in 2022-23.
The Blades’ violation of EFL rules has resulted in an initial two-point deduction, with an additional two-point suspension imposed by the EFL, signaling a significant setback for the Premier League’s bottom club.
While expressing disappointment with the ruling, Sheffield United has opted not to contest the decision, prioritizing a resolution to the matter to avoid potential escalation of penalties and protracted legal proceedings.
In a statement, the club affirmed its commitment to moving forward, stating, “The club is now in a position to close this matter and concentrate on the future.”
The sanction imposed by the EFL will take effect at the commencement of the next Championship season in which Sheffield United participates. Additionally, the club has been ordered to cover the EFL’s legal expenses totaling £310,455.
The deferred payments, exceeding 550 days collectively, transpired during the tenure of manager Paul Heckingbottom, as Sheffield United clinched the runner-up spot behind Burnley during the promotion campaign.
Under the stewardship of current manager Chris Wilder, Sheffield United finds themselves languishing at the bottom of the Premier League standings, facing a daunting nine-point deficit from safety with only seven matches remaining in the season.