FA may take ‘easiest option’ and hand QPR points deduction for the start of next season, says sports lawyer

QPR manager Neil Warnock

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Queens Park Rangers could still be promoted to the Premier League, but start next season with a points deduction, according to a top sports lawyer.

The club are facing FA charges relating to third party ownership stemming from the 2009 signing of Alejandro Faurlin but Andrew Nixon, of sports law firm Thomas Eggar, feels that they could avoid a hefty points deduction.

There have been reports that QPR could face a maximum 15 point deduction, sending them from the top of the Championship down into the play-offs, but Nixon feels the FA may opt for the “easiest option” and hand them a deduction for next term.

“If the club are found guilty any punishment of a fine or a points deduction depends on the level of guilt,” he told Press Association Sport.

“It depends whether there has been an intent to breach the rules, or a flagrant disregard of the rules.

“Today and tomorrow hold the key in terms of the cross examination of the club officials involved who will be taking to the stand.

“One option will be to deduct points next season, and that could be the easiest option, certainly with regard to managing the play-offs.

“Therefore it could be that they start next season with a negative three-point balance.”

However, Nixon believes that this decision would prove unpopular with fellow Championship sides, who may decide to take legal advice.

“Should QPR not be deducted points then other clubs will obviously wish to consider their position,” he added.