‎Leicester City made a huge error in points deduction appeal

In the often chaotic world of English football finance, Keith Wyness has become a regular and at times controversial voice on matters concerning Leicester City F.C. and other clubs. A former chief executive of Everton F.C. and Aston Villa F.C., Wyness carries the authority of someone who has operated at senior level within the Premier League.

Now 68, his experience running top-flight institutions gives him a well-informed understanding of the league’s complex Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSRs), which continue to shape the financial and regulatory landscape of the game.

However, his opinions are frequently shared through Football Insider, a platform many supporters in the UK regard with scepticism, often dismissing its reports as exaggerated or speculative.

Keith Wyness on Leicester City’s appeal

Wyness’ latest claim centres on what he believes is a risky legal strategy by Leicester. After being handed an initial six-point deduction for breaching financial regulations, the Foxes chose to appeal a decision he suggests could backfire.

His argument hinges on the possibility that an independent appeal panel could interpret the challenge as lacking merit. If that were the case, the governing body would have the authority to increase the original punishment rather than reduce it.

“I think they would have been better advised to just go home and accept the punishment. I do think they’re going to get an extra point.

“I think they’re going to end up with seven points. And I think that’s what the problem is they should have just taken those six.”

Instead of achieving a reduction, Leicester risk what could be described as a regulatory “boomerang,” where the six-point deduction becomes even harsher. The Premier League, already understood to be pushing for a stricter sanction, may feel strengthened in its position if the club’s appeal is seen as unnecessarily combative. Meanwhile, chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha has appeared relatively unfazed publicly a stance that has not gone unnoticed among sections of the fanbase.

Ultimately, Wyness believes Leicester’s refusal to accept the original ruling could prove costly. For a side already facing significant competitive pressure, this legal gamble may yet deepen their predicament rather than resolve it.