Charlton considering legal challenge following Sheffield Wednesday verdict

Charlton Athletic are considering a legal challenge following the news that Sheffield Wednesday will receive a sanction that will come into effect in the 2020/21 season.

The Owls were charged with ‘breaching the League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules for the three season reporting period ending with Season 2017/18’ in November 2019 and will start the upcoming season on -12 points.

The EFL said in a statement that the club “should not have included profits from the sale of Hillsborough Stadium in the club’s financial statements for the period ending July 2018”.

Sheffield Wednesday finished the season in 16th, eight points above the relegation zone.

Had the deduction come into effect in the 2019/20 season as opposed to next season, the club would be facing relegation with Wigan and Hull and 22nd placed Charlton would survive in the Championship.

Now, the Addicks are considering a legal challenge against the decision. The club’s statement read: “The club is considering a legal challenge following the news that Sheffield Wednesday will receive a sporting sanction that will take effect in the 2020/21 season.

“Sheffield Wednesday were charged in November 2019 for breaching the EFL’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules for the three-season reporting period ending with Season 2017/18.

“We fail to understand why the deduction will take place next season rather than the current season, which seems to be irrational, and are writing to the EFL to get an explanation of the justification.

“The club will keep fans updated on any further action”.