Cash-strapped Birmingham City fall under EFL funding and ownership rules

February 21 - English Tier 2 club Birmingham City could face a suspended points deduction after being charged with multiple counts of misconduct by the English Football League.

The Championship club and a "number of individuals" have been charged with alleged breaches of the rules following a takeover bid investigation.

Unconfirmed reports indicate the charges refer to a potential buyer, Paul Richardson, who allegedly bankrolled the club without EFL approval.

Richardson and former Barcelona striker Maxi López withdrew their offer in December. The charges relate to alleged violations of the owners' and directors' test.

Birmingham has been owned by the Chinese company Birmingham Sports Holdings Limited since 2016.

"After thoroughly considering all relevant issues, the EFL has now determined that there is sufficient evidence to warrant the issuance of various misconduct charges," the EFL statement read.< /p>

“The charges allege that a number of people were authorized to act and acted as relevant persons and/or acquired control of the club without the prior approval of the EFL, and related breaches ."

Birmingham said in a statement that they acknowledged the EFL's decision to press charges and that no further comment would be made.

However, Richardson wrote on Instagram: "In response to the EFL's statement released today, we will vigorously defend any alleged breach of regulations."

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