Everton sporting director Kevin Thelwell has issued a rallying call ahead of this Sunday’s game against Manchester United, stating the players will be motivated by “the additional fuel of what we believe is a wholly disproportionate ruling”.
The Toffees were on Friday docked 10 points by an independent commission for an infringement relating to the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules.
The sanction saw Everton drop to 19th in the table, two points from safety.
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The club have confirmed they will appeal and Thelwell says the ruling has instilled a unifying effect on manager Sean Dyche and all the staff at the club.
In a letter on the club’s website, he wrote: “Given the events of the last week, I felt it was important I share with you the thoughts of myself, Sean and all the staff and players here at Finch Farm as we prepare for the return to Premier League action this weekend.
“Colin’s [Chong, the club’s interim CEO] video message last Friday echoed my views and the sentiment of everybody here at Finch Farm. We are shocked by what we believe is a wholly disproportionate and unjust ruling by the Premier League’s commission.
— Everton (@Everton) NOVEMBER 17, 2023
“We cannot say anything further on the commission’s findings until the conclusion of the appeal process – and the players and manager cannot be drawn on any specifics relating to the commission’s ruling in the media duties they will be fulfilling in the days and weeks ahead.
“But the clear and tangible impact on our league position because of that ruling is clear to see in the Premier League table. We return to action five places lower than the 14th position held following our hard-fought victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
“The three points from that victory may no longer be accounted for in the table – nor seven other hard-earned points amassed during this season. But what does remain in place is the unity, focus and determination that helped earn those points on the field of play – now supplemented by the additional fuel of what we believe is a wholly disproportionate ruling.”
It is expected Goodison Park will be rocking on Sunday when United visit with a sense of injustice prevalent among the supporters.
Thelwell added: “We are rallying in the face of a sporting sanction in the only way we can – and that is our focus and hard work in supporting the team in delivering to their fullest on the pitch.
“Everton is a special football club. It is a special football club because of its people – our players, staff and fans.
“We go into this weekend having secured six wins from our last nine outings in all competitions. The team has displayed a level of effort, camaraderie and bravery that is synonymous with this club in earning those victories.
“That spirit remains strong – unwavering. Sean and the players are fully focused on the work that lies ahead. And everybody at Finch Farm is united.
“We know that every Evertonian is behind us. That is never taken for granted, but always hugely appreciated and valued. We feel the strength of support, and we will continue to use that backing to drive us on.”
