Premier League statement in full: Brighton, Chelsea and West Ham watch on as rivals face points deduction

Everton and Nottingham Forest have been referred to an independent commission over alleged breaches of Premier League financial rules.

The clubs issued statements acknowledging the referrals, which relate to alleged breaches of the league’s profitability and sustainability rules, with the Premier League confirming minutes later. If the breaches are proven, they face the threat of points deductions.

The clubs have 14 days to submit their formal answers to the complaints.