Man Utd and Man City's Premier League rivals referred to commission over 'breach' of spending rules

Everton and Nottingham Forest have been referred to an independent commission over an alleged breach of the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules (PSR).

The Premier League confirmed on Monday afternoon that both clubs had confirmed their breach during the three-year period ending with the 2022/2023 season. Teams are permitted maximum losses of £105million over three years.

A statement from the Premier League read: "Everton FC and Nottingham Forest FC have each confirmed to the Premier League that they are in breach of the League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR). This is as a result of sustaining losses above the permitted thresholds for the assessment period ending Season 2022/23. "In accordance with Premier League Rules, both cases have now been referred to the chair of the Judicial Panel, who will appoint separate Commissions to determine the appropriate sanction.

"Commissions are independent of the Premier League and member clubs. The proceedings are heard in private with the Commissions’ final decisions made public on the Premier League’s website. The League will make no further comment until that time."

Everton have already received a 10-point deduction this season after being found in breach of PSR rules for the period ending with the 2021/2022 campaign. They are appealing that sanction but there is a chance they could be docked further points if they are found guilty of a similar offence.

In a statement, Everton confirmed they will 'continue to defend its position during the ongoing appeal and, should it be required to do so, at any future commission – and that the impact on supporters will be reflected as part of that process.'

Nottingham Forest also acknowledged the Premier League's statement, adding that they will cooperate and hope for a 'speedy and fair resolution'. Both clubs have 14 days to submit formal answers to the complaint. The commission is expected to come to a decision before the end of the season, meaning both are at risk of points deductions for the current campaign.

Manchester City remain under investigation after being accused of breaching 115 regulations over a period of 14 seasons from 2009/2010 onwards. They strongly deny the accusations and a verdict in that sense will take much longer, given the number and complexity of the charges.