15 Jul 2008Luton Town lose appeal against 10-point deduction

Football Clubs News | Football Finance News | Football Leagues/ Association and Governance

Luton Town have lost their appeal against the 10-point penalty imposed by the Football Association (FA) after being found guilty of misconduct for paying agents with a third party.

It means the club will start next season on minus 30 points, the biggest points deduction ever inflicted on a side in the league.

A statement from the FA said that the decision was the appropriate punishment.

"The deduction of ten points was a heavy sanction, as it was intended to be, but was not excessive as a reflection of the seriousness of the breaches and the need to deter such conduct within football clubs."

Luton had appealed because they felt the original decision was "excessive" and one that "no reasonable body should have come to".

A statement from the FA said that the situation was unfortunate for the club and for fans that a further 20-point deduction was imposed for breaking insolvency rules.

"The Football Association Appeal Board takes the view that the Football League's decision to deduct 20 points was entirely a matter for the Football League."

The club has also been fined £50,000.

© Copyright