Everton manager Sean Dyche said the reduction of the club's points penalty for breaching Premier League financial rules has provided "clarity" for the team as they strive to remain in the "top flight".
In November, Everton was initially docked 10 points for violating profit and sustainability rules during the three-year period leading up to 2021/22, marking the most significant punishment in Premier League history.
However, following an appeal, it was revealed on Monday that the penalty had been reduced to six points, elevating Everton to the 15th position in the league table and significantly boosting their chances of survival.
"We're pleased that we got something back, obviously," Dyche commented ahead of the upcoming home match against West Ham, acknowledging that the initial penalty was deemed "harsh." He further expressed a sense of contentment with the four points being reinstated and highlighted the positive impact of the decision on the team's clarity and morale.
"You're always greedy, aren't you? You want more," Dyche remarked. "The points the club made have obviously been listened to, and we got the four points back, so we'll take that, and now, of course, it brings clarity to the situation, which I think is good for us, good for the players, but I think it's actually good for all."
Despite the recent reprieve, Everton have faced potential challenges as they were charged in January with breaching rules for a second time related to the assessment period ending with the 2022–23 season. Dyche acknowledged this, stating, "There's nothing we can do (about the second case) at this time," emphasising that the primary focus was on the recent appeal outcome.
"Now that the line's drawn under that, the players are clear on that," Dyche said. "We'll take on the rest of the season at this time and with an open mind. Everything that helps to give us a lift of any kind is good news. I think performances have stayed solid, we haven't had the wins that we'd want, obviously."
Everton, a nine-time English champion, has maintained a continuous presence in the top flight since 1954 and has never been relegated from the Premier League. Despite narrowly avoiding relegation last season, the club has faced challenges in reclaiming past glory, with its last trophy secured in 1995, while being perennially overshadowed by city rivals Liverpool.
