Burnley Faces Points Deduction Over Alleged Use of Weakened Team During Match, Under Investigation

Reports suggest that Burnley, who are leading the Championship by a considerable margin, are being investigated for playing a less strong team during their match against Reading last week.

Vincent Kompany's team secured promotion back to the Premier League earlier this month with a 2-1 victory over Middlesbrough.

In the last week's match against Reading, Vincent Kompany made six changes to his team's starting lineup, giving his reserve players a chance to make an impression, considering that Reading is threatened with relegation.

Reading managed to secure a 0-0 draw, earning a crucial point that could aid their survival campaign.

The EFL is reportedly investigating Burnley following a complaint by Huddersfield, one of the clubs fighting to avoid relegation, over Vincent Kompany's team selection in their recent match against Reading. According to a report by The Sun, Huddersfield was displeased with Burnley's decision to field a weakened team, potentially giving Reading an advantage in their relegation battle.

The prevailing belief is that the EFL has contacted the Clarets regarding this matter, and if they are found to be at fault, they may face a penalty in the form of a fine or deduction of points.

Nonetheless, it has been stated that Burnley is unwavering in their assertion that they made the alterations to the team because they were making use of their squad, and some of their lesser-used players required playing time.

Last Saturday, Burnley resumed playing with their strongest team, but they experienced an unexpected 2-1 loss against another team that is also struggling to avoid relegation in the Championship, namely Queens Park Rangers.

After the game against QPR, Kompany expressed that:

“I think the first half was, you have to score in the first half one if not more. I could see signs today of a team that for the first time is in a position where they have to win titles.

“Second half started and I had a feeling, I said it on the bench straight away I know this feeling, I’ve been there before and when guys are trying to make stuff up and are changing or deviating from what they’ve done so well in the season and when you start making stuff up you put yourself in a position where you basically you’re chasing.

“You’re chasing the title, or you’re chasing the moment and it’s the opposite of what you have to do.”

Despite strong competition from Sheffield United, Burnley are the frontrunners for the Championship title with a 10-point lead.