Burnley under investigation for playing weakened lineup

Burnley are under investigation after they fielded a weakened side against Reading during their 0-0 draw in the English Football League (EFL) Championship last week.

The Clarets, who have already secured promotion to the Premier League next season, fielded a much-changed lineup that featured several fringe players in the starting eleven.

Reading Pick Up Crucial Points

The result proved crucial for Reading, who picked up a crucial point from the fixture in their quest for survival in the Championship.

A report from the Sun claims that the result caused frustration amongst Reading’s relegation rivals Huddersfield. Who have written to the EFL about the matter, as Vincent Kompany’s side made six changes in the starting lineup.

Burnley could face potential points deduction and a hefty fine if found guilty.

Reading face key game against relegation rivals

Huddersfield are currently just a point above the relegation zone with 44 points, with Reading a point behind and a spot just below.

Both sides are pitted against each other in the last game week which could be huge in determining who stays up in the league.

Burnley, however, are adamant that they made changes to accommodate the league’s busy schedule. Incidentally, Kompany’s side lost again this Saturday as their full-strength team was beaten by Queens Park Ranger 1-2 at home.

The EFL regulations claim that every club should play at full strength in the league unless satisfactory reasons is given.

The Athletic have reported that the EFL have contacted Burnley regarding the matter, but the conversations are informal, and no investigation is underway.

The rules also state that if clubs cannot provide a satisfactory explanation on fielding weakened squads, they would face disciplinary action that could see them punished and also be imposed penalties that the EFL sees fit.

Moreover, from March end, the EFL requires that any team sheet include at least ten outfield players featured on the team sheet for the league game before.

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