West Bromwich Albion have been left shocked by the speed of the judgement in their EFL Profit and Sustainability (P&S) case, which resulted in a two-point deduction. The two-day hearing concluded on a Thursday evening, and by Friday lunchtime—less than 24 hours later—the club was informed of the breach. Legal experts noted that such cases typically take weeks for a verdict. On Friday, West Brom received only a brief explanation before the punishment was made public at 5pm.
Contrast with Manchester City Case
Meanwhile, the independent panel considering the Premier League’s 115-plus charges against Manchester City—which the club strongly denies—has yet to reach a verdict, almost 18 months after the hearing. West Brom’s breach involved spending less than £2 million above the permitted limit over three years, described by the club as “the smallest ever breach of the P&S Rules across the EFL Championship and the Premier League.” The club maintains its innocence, arguing that in 2023-24, the EFL’s Club Financial Reporting Unit allowed “Community Development Expenditure” in P&S calculations, but later changed the rules retroactively. Sources familiar with the process insist community development expenditure was not the only factor, but critics warn this approach risks discouraging investment in club charities. West Brom have 14 days to appeal, but given their safety was secured with a point against Ipswich, they may accept the penalty.
FA Disciplinary Process Criticised Again
Lawyers for Fulham and manager Marco Silva have criticised the Football Association’s disciplinary approach after Silva was fined £90,000 and given a one-game ban for comments about referee bias. The FA wrote to Silva in early March requesting observations on his post-match remarks after a 1-0 defeat to West Ham, where he referenced VAR official John Brooks’ influence. Fulham’s lawyers responded that the FA’s letter was “standard form” and lacked specific concerns, leading to an independent commission’s penalty. On appeal, Silva’s ban was suspended for one year. This follows heavy criticism of the FA’s handling of the Lucas Paqueta spot-fixing allegations, where a 314-page report highlighted an “obvious flaw” in failing to seek independent data assessment.
AI Coaching for Cricket
Sourav Ganguly, one of India’s greatest cricketers, will soon be available as an AI coach through Kabuni, a machine-learning platform. The device uses biomechanics and real-time motion tracking to provide feedback via a yellow orb with three cameras on a tripod. Founder Nimesh Patel said Kabuni aims to give young cricketers access to professional-level insight. Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has also joined as a “super coach” for mental performance.
Bournemouth’s Hollywood Star
Bournemouth have added a red star to their megastore, reading “Michael B. Jordan. First Premier League owner to win an Oscar.” The actor, a minority owner since 2022, won Best Actor for his role in Sinners. The star resembles those on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, with gold edging and the club’s red replacing pink.
‘Baconbuttygate’ Denied
Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage denied claims that a fan was ejected for bringing a bacon sandwich into the vegan club’s stadium, calling it “fake news.” The viral video, viewed millions of times, originated from a TikTok account with 450 followers that produces viral content. The club confirmed the fan was not removed for the sandwich.
