Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion's potential Championship rivals handed shock punishment

One of Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion’s potential Championship rivals has been dealt a significant blow after the EFL confirmed Sheffield United are to be handed a points deduction.

The Blades, who are currently sat bottom of the Premier League after winning just three of their 31 games so far this season, will be deducted two points ahead of their next season in the Championship after failing to make payments due to a number of other clubs during their time in the second tier.

An EFL statement read: “An independent Disciplinary Commission (IDC) has determined that Sheffield United Football Club are to be deducted two points at the start of the next season the Club is in the EFL’s jurisdiction, with a further two points suspended until the end of that same season.

“The sanction relates to the 2022/23 season, when the Club defaulted on a number of payments to other Clubs. These defaults cumulatively were in excess of 550 days.  The suspended points deduction will be activated if the Club defaults on any payment due to another Club under a transfer or compensation agreement for more than five business days from the due date for payment.  The Club has agreed to pay the EFL’s costs in the sum of £310,455.”

The Blades were quick to respond to the announcement with a statement on their club website.  It read: “While disappointed to have the deduction imposed upon the return to the EFL and highlighting that awaiting overdue monies from several other clubs affected Sheffield United's financial situation, the club took the view that it was better to reach an agreement which minimised the risks of a higher deduction or further transfer embargoes being imposed, and being distracted by lengthy and costly legal proceedings. The club is now in a position to close this matter and concentrate on the future.”

The penalty will only be imposed if Chris Wilder’s side are relegated from the Premier League and would not be utilised if they are successful in their bid to avoid the drop. West Brom will hope to be one of the sides replacing the Blades in the top tier and will hope to continue their push for a play-off place with a win in Saturday’s home game with Sunderland. Birmingham City are focused on matters at the other end of the table as they look to take a step towards maintaining their second tier status with a home win against Coventry City on Saturday.