Everton learnt earlier this week that their 10-point deduction for a breach of financial rules has been reduced to a 6-point deduction following an appeal.
The Toffees were immediately re-credited with four points, which has lifted them to 15th in the Premier League table and they now sit five points clear of the relegation zone.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference for Everton’s upcoming game against West Ham, Blues boss Sean Dyche gave his thoughts on the outcome of the appeal.
Dyche said:
"We're pleased we've got something back,
"You're always greedy aren’t you? Want more. But the points the club put forward have been listened to and we've got four points back. We'll take that and now it brings clarity to the situation, which is good for us and the players, and good for all actually."
The outcome of the appeal only gives Everton fans a brief moment of clarity and positivity as a second charge against the Blues, as well as a charge against Nottingham Forest, are scheduled to be dealt with before the end of the season, which could lead to a further points deduction for both clubs.
Speaking on the potential second punishment, Dyche said:
“There’s nothing we can do about that this time. The main focus was on this appeal and what came from it.
“We’ve certainly parked that now because it’s become a fact now. The line has been drawn under that and the players are clear on it so we take on the rest of the season now with an open mind.”
The Premier League have come under intense scrutiny for what many deem a substandard process in dealing with the financial breaches.
Deducting points from Everton mid-season, and now adding some back, has caused uncertainty for not just the Merseyside club, but also the likes of Luton Town and Brentford who have seen their league position fluctuate due to the ongoing off-pitch issues.
When asked for his thoughts on the Premier League’s process, Sean Dyche said the following:
"The thing I've learned from the process is from an open, common-sense view, surely it's better to do it at the end of the season.
"You could have one charge or 57 charges, the point is at the end of that, say, 'There you go, bang, that's you moving forwards'. The power of the Premier League means they could find a format and a way of working so that can be found.
"It's much more challenging for it to happen mid-season for the players, for the fan mentality, for the whole of football, all going, 'Where did that come from?' because I think most people were thinking that."
As for on-pitch issues, Sean Dyche has to deal with a potential midfield injury crisis as he prepares for Everton’s upcoming match against West Ham this Saturday, with Idrissa Gueye and Amadou Onana both doubts for the fixture.