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Scary news for Blues fans

Kieran Maguire of the PriceofFootball takes an in depth look at the recently released accounts of Birmingham City: Do what John?

Income was up 12% to £19.6 million but wages were up 78% to £40.1 million. There are some complicated calculations to take into account, but it is evident that some risks were taken. 'The scary news for Blues’ fans is that the holding company made an operating loss of £825,000 a week in 2017/18, a total of £43 million, which is more than two and a half times the loss made in 2017.'

Maguire concludes, 'Birmingham gambled on Harry Redknapp weaving some magic in 2017/18 and that the consequences of non-promotion wouldn’t apply to them. This might have been because they saw the EFL taking a soft line with QPR, Bournemouth and Leicester for FFP abuses in recent years. Whether the EFL do have teeth is still to be seen, but there will be many other clubs watching with close interest.'

The disciplinary commission dealing with Birmingham City's case is not expected to meet in October and it is known when it will meet: Sanctions

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