Edinburgh City launch appeal against 15-point deduction

Edinburgh City have launched an appeal after being hit with a fifteen-point deduction over a long-standing unpaid debt.

The club was disciplined by the SPFL in January 2024 after the then League One side’s squad failed to receive their November wages on time and in full.

City were relegated back to League Two after a 5–2 defeat to Alloa Athletic on March 16, 2024.

On Tuesday, it was confirmed that provisional liquidator has been appointed to the club on July 22 over a long-standing unpaid debt.

A statement from the SPFL confirmed that the 15-point deduction was handed out automatically under league rules, as the appointment of a liquidator represents an insolvency event and triggers the penalty.

It leaves Michael McIndoe’s side facing a huge battle to preserve their senior league status, with their campaign beginning with a 2-1 to Stirling Albion in their opening league fixture of the season.

Edinburgh City released a statement confirming they have began the appeal process “immediately”.

Under SPFL rules, the club have the right to ask an SPFL appeal panel to review the punishment.

An SPFL spokesperson said: “The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) has today confirmed the imposition of a 15-point deduction for Edinburgh City, as per SPFL rules on clubs suffering an insolvency event.

“This deduction follows a provisional liquidator being appointed in respect of the club on July 22 this year in relation to an unpaid debt due by the club.

“Similar to administration, the provisional appointment of a liquidator is an insolvency event under SPFL Rules.

“The William Hill League 2 table has been updated accordingly.”

A spokesperson for the club said: “Edinburgh City FC hereby acknowledges the penalty imposed upon it by the SPFL this morning. The Club will begin its appeal process immediately.

“No further comment will be made at this time.”