Everton points appeal set for final week of season

Everton’s appeal against their second points deduction for breaching the Premier League’s financial rules will be heard during the final week of the current season.

The Toffees were docked two points after an independent commission found the club had breached Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) by £16.6m for the three-year period to 2022-23.

Clubs are permitted to lose £105m over a three-year period and Everton had already been deducted 10 points – reduced to six on appeal - for the period to 2021-22.

The latest appeal is scheduled to be heard in the week commencing 13 May and the appeals panel have confirmed a verdict will be announced before the final game against Arsenal on 19 May.

Despite losing points this season, Sean Dyche’s side guaranteed Premier League survival by beating Brentford 1-0 on Saturday.

The Toffees travel to face relegation-threatened Luton on Friday (kick-off 20:00 BST) having secured their own top-flight status with three consecutive wins in six days.

Asked about their next three games being more relaxed than last season when they escaped relegation on the final day, boss Dyche said: "We're finding that balance.

"The feel-good factor has obviously affected everyone and we want to use that to our advantage. The freedom comes back into your play because our objective is achieved.

"It's about using all the things we've learned in these last three games and delivering performances.

"I am so thankful to the staff and players for all of their efforts and of course the fans, who played their part as well.

"A very big week - not just in the results but in the feel of the situation and how quickly it changes from a real negative to a real heavy positive."