Andros Townsend claims Everton and Nottingham Forest’s points deductions ‘make a MOCKERY of the Premier League’, also discusses the psychological difficulties that these point deductions take on the relegation struggle.

Andros Townsend has criticised the Premier League for deducting points from Everton and Nottingham Forest.

In a scathing attack, the Luton Town star called the penalties ‘nonsense’ and said they’make a mockery of the Premier League’.

He also explained how they add another layer of uncertainty to the relegation battle, making it more difficult for teams psychologically.

Everton received a 10-point deduction in November but have since had four points reversed, while Forest were stripped of four points earlier this month. Both sanctions were imposed for violating Premier League profit and sustainability guidelines.

‘We don’t know what’s going to happen. Everton have got points back, Forest are appealing and may get points back, Everton may get more points [deducted] – who knows,’  Townsend told BBC Radio 5 Live.

‘It all may get wrapped up the week before the end of the season. It’s all nonsense, to be honest.

‘Psychologically, if you’re above the relegation zone, you’re thinking a point is enough to keep you above the relegation zone.

‘Then a week later you’re back in the relegation zone because teams have got their points back.

‘For me, it makes a mockery of the Premier League [and] what is the best league in the world.’

Townsend’s damning assessment came despite the fact that Luton Town benefited greatly from the deductions.

Luton are one point ahead of Forest and out of the relegation zone following Forest’s four-point loss.

Everton was charged with financial rule violations in 2021-22. The Toffees suffered staggering financial losses of nearly £372 million over three years.

That’s more than £250 million more than the Premier League’s guidelines allow clubs to lose over a three-year rolling period. The technical alleged breaches involved accounting treatments, with the League claiming Everton violated profit and sustainability rules (PSR).

Their penalty was reduced after an appeal.

Meanwhile, Forest are appealing their punishment after the Premier League claimed they exceeded their PSR threshold by up to £34.5 million in the applicable period.

In other news, ‘It’s ridiculous’: Chris Sutton slams the Premier League following Nottingham Forest FFP update