‘Disastrous’ – Exclusive: West Brom-West Ham points deduction claim made by pundit
We’re delighted to welcome former West Brom striker Kevin Phillips as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at The Hawthorns…
Kevin Phillips claims “it would be disastrous” for West Brom and West Ham if they were hit with a points deduction over Robert Snodgrass’ transfer.
The Premier League are investigating the deal which took Snodgrass, 33, to The Hawthorns earlier this month after Albion manager Sam Allardyce confirmed the winger missed the game against West Ham due to a prior agreement between the two clubs.
The Sun has reported that a points deduction is a possible punishment for both the Baggies and the Hammers but the London club believe they have evidence that will get them out of hot water and that Allardyce “was just making mischief”.
Phillips, however, has heard that it’s unlikely the punishment will be that severe for West Brom and West Ham if they are found to have broken any laws of the game.
However, the ex-Albion striker does admit that a points deduction would be a huge blow to both teams.
“They’re coming out saying it’s highly unlikely that any action is going to be taken,” Phillips told West Brom News.
“Of course, there’s always that chance that it can but personally, I don’t see the issue.
“The two clubs have agreed that a player won’t play and for me, just let it be – let it go.
“I’m sure the Premier League would have seen when the deal was done when the forms were sent through.
“I don’t know what will come of it but let’s just hope. It would be disastrous if there was a points deduction, you’d rather take a fine but I’d be surprised if they deducted points.”
Snodgrass’ move to West Brom looked to be a superb one after he played a key role in the win against Wolves at Molineux.
However, that agreement meant we were without him at West Ham and it could have cost us at least a point as he played so well versus Wolves.
But it was a risk that was probably worth taking in the eyes of the Baggies – but they should have kept it under wraps.
Someone at the club must have known that agreement was against the rules. Someone at the club should have made it clear to the media team and to Allardyce – and everyone else for that matter – that the agreement cannot be released to the public.
Yes, it was wrong and against the rules but if you’re going to bend the laws of the game, at least do it properly.
It’s an absolute shambles at board level at The Hawthorns and this just proves it.
In other West Brom news, there’s been a major Christian Benteke development after he was linked with a move to The Hawthorns.
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