09 February 2024 , 18:11
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Richard Masters has sought to explain himself after angering Everton and Nottingham Forest fans by appearing to refer to them as “small clubs” last month.
The Premier League chief executive appeared in front of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee on January 16 where, among other things, he spoke about the charges against Everton and Forest. Masters was asked about the frustrations that have arisen because of the differences between the way Manchester City’s 115 alleged breaches have been dealt with compared to Everton and Forest.
During his answer, he said: “I’ve said standard directions for everybody – not just the ‘small clubs’.” That phrase sparked a backlash among supporters and prompted Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, the chair of the CMSC, to write to Masters on January 26 seeking clarification. Dinenage said: “To suggest clubs are categorised according to size raises wider questions about whether every member of the league truly does receive treatment that is fair and consistent.”
Masters replied to Dinenage on February 8 in a letter which has now been made public. He wrote: “First, you asked about whether a distinction is made between 'big' and 'small' clubs within the Premier League.
“As you will recall, I was asked a question by a committee member who used the term ‘big clubs’ when arguing that there is cynicism about certain clubs' ability to use legal means to ensure that cases ‘take 10 years or never come to fruition’.
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“In response, I sought to emphasise that the Premier League's Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSRs) apply equally to all clubs. Furthermore, I am happy to confirm that, while clubs can be delineated by many different measures, no such criteria or classification is used by the Premier League.
“As I said in my evidence, Everton and Nottingham Forest are valued and respected members of the Premier League. Both clubs enjoy successful histories, have strong and passionate fanbases, and make a significant contribution not just to the Premier League's vibrant competition, but also to their cities and local communities.
Everton fans have regularly protested against the Premier League's decision to deduct 10 points (PETER POWELL/AFP via Getty Images)“By reflecting the committee member's framing of the question, I did not intend to suggest otherwise. It would be incorrect to infer from this that there is any unfair treatment based on club size, as suggested in the committee's media statement. Indeed, the point I made was the opposite, in that the Premier League board applies the rules consistently, irrespective of the club in question.”
Speaking to the CMSC Committee in January, Masters explained: "It’s a very separate process for the other cases because they are fundamentally different in nature.
“Unfortunately, I can’t go into all of that today. I do understand that from the outside looking in, fans are interested in what goes on on the pitch and they’re less interested in financial regulations, unless it impacts upon their club and how that works throughout the system.”
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