Wigan Athletic appeal against points deduction

Wigan Athletic administrator Gerald Krasner has said the club have appealed against their 12-point deduction.

The English Football League (EFL) said the punishment - for being put into administration - would apply this season if Wigan finish outside the bottom three in the Championship.

"The only grounds we have is 'force majeure'," said Krasner. "This situation was totally unexpected, so we believe this case applies."

The EFL will also investigate how the Latics have ended up in administration.

Force majeure events are usually defined as certain acts, events or circumstances beyond the control of the involved parties, such as natural disasters, war or a pandemic.

In addition, Wigan are facing a further points deduction of up to 15 points should any new owner fail to pay 25% of the money owed to non-football creditors.

In a statement, the EFL said it "acknowledges it is a difficult time for any club placed into administration, particularly in the midst of Covid-19, but is mindful that its regulations are to be applied consistently and equally to all member clubs irrespective of the circumstances".