Keith Wyness: Leicester City ‘Should Be Thrilled’ After Points Deduction is Reduced

Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness believes Leicester City should feel relieved after an independent commission reduced their points deduction to six for breaching EFL Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), despite the club's ongoing appeal[1][4]. The Foxes exceeded the £83 million loss threshold by £20.8 million over a contentious assessment period, initially facing up to 12 points but seeing it halved due to mitigating factors like infrastructure investments and improved finances[1][5].

Leicester, now languishing in the Championship relegation zone—20th place, two points from safety—have appealed the sanction, arguing it remains "excessive" and overlooks key mitigations, including a push for a 36-month (not 37-month) evaluation period, which the commission partially accepted[1][2][3]. The club contends the mid-season penalty undermines competitive integrity amid a tight survival battle with 14 games left[2][4].

Complicating matters, the Premier League has counter-appealed, seeking an additional point for Leicester's late financial report submission to establish precedent, emphasizing strict rule adherence regardless of a club's status[2][3][5]. Both appeals are before an independent panel, with a verdict expected before the season ends to provide certainty[2][3].

Wyness highlights the reduction from the Premier League's harsher demand as a win, urging focus on survival under new manager Garry Rowett, squad overhaul, and avoiding League One—a stark fall from their 2016 title and recent FA Cup glory[3]. Fans express mixed relief at the 'lenient' six points but frustration over leadership's refusal to fully accept fault, amid calls for ownership change[4]. The saga underscores PSR's bite, with "add-backs" for youth, women's football, and infrastructure failing to fully shield Leicester[5].

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