Will Rochdale AFC have points deducted? What football club's 'unprecedented' charge could mean

Football league bosses have charged Rochdale AFC over rule breaches with just weeks left to go in the season. The League Two club are currently nine points clear of local rivals Oldham Athletic in the relegation zone, with just 11 games remaining.

Yesterday's announcement has left Rochdale AFC fans fearing a points deduction from the EFL, with other clubs facing similar punishments in recent years. And if the deduction comes this season, it could plunge the side into relegation bother - while helping to keep Latics up.

But how likely is a points deduction for Dale? The EFL has issued several similar sanctions in recent years against sides including Derby County, Reading and Wigan Athletic.

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Sheffield Wednesday and Birmingham City have also been served points deductions in the past few years, while Luton Town were docked a huge 30-point haul back in 2008-09. Yet Rochdale's situation is completely different.

Rochdale AFC have been charged with alleged breaches of EFL regulations, following an investigation into the acquisition of shares in the club by Morton House in July 2021. A number of 'other individuals' have also been charged.

It is alleged that Morton House acquired shares in the football club without EFL approval through the owners’ and directors’ test. In August 2021, it's claimed the club then withdrew from the EFL’s approval process and Morton House's shares were divested.

The football club claimed in September 2021 there had been 'no contact' between the club and Morton House and announced it would assist the EFL in its investigation. However, the EFL believes Rochdale AFC's actions amount to misconduct, and a charge was made