Sheffield United CEO Says Blades Expect No Points Deduction
Sheffield United CEO Stephen Bettis says the club expects to avoid an EFL points deduction but acknowledges the risk remains, as the EFL investigates the liquidation of a former group company.
Sheffield United chief executive Stephen Bettis has said the club does not expect to receive an English Football League points deduction, but conceded that fines or a points penalty remain possible. Bettis spoke to BBC Radio Sheffield on Tuesday, addressing the EFL investigation into the liquidation of COH Sports Bidco Limited (CSBL), the company used to buy the club, which was placed into liquidation by the High Court in August. A winding-up petition was filed in July by former owners United World.
Under EFL rules, insolvency events can trigger a 12-point deduction. Bettis argued that the deduction only applies if the club or a group company goes into insolvency, and that the entity in question had already left the Sheffield United group before the winding-up order. He said the owners would "fight hard" any sanction, and that legal advice indicates the club did not become insolvent. Bettis added that if the case were clear-cut, charges would already have been brought.
The EFL told BBC Sport that matters remain ongoing. Bettis acknowledged the risk of a points deduction or fine is still on the table, saying he would not categorically rule it out until a verdict is delivered. He noted the EFL has been aware of the situation for four months and that the owners have cooperated fully with the investigation.
Bettis also discussed the nearly £35m still owed from the takeover, saying talks continue with former owner Prince Abdullah bin Mosaad Al Saud over a potential reduction. He said the new owners are not trying to avoid payment but believe the sum should be adjusted. He also said director Timothy Ryan has passed the fit and proper owner test with the EFL and the Independent Football Regulator, and that co-chair Steven Rosen is not facing disqualification.
While the club waits for the EFL's decision, Bettis stressed that until a verdict is reached, all outcomes remain possible. The investigation continues as Sheffield United seek clarity on their financial and sporting position.
