LFC likely to avoid Premier League points deduction even if RBS take over

Anfield 300LIVERPOOL FC are likely to avoid a Premier League points deductions even if the Royal Bank of Scotland takes over the club.The Reds face the very real possibility the bank could grab control by the middle of this month if American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett fail to pay the £237m debt.Some football legal experts have predicted that Kop Holdings, which owns LFC, would automatically be placed into administration.But the ECHO understands the Premier League would not view that move as Liverpool being declared insolvent. Regular discussions have been taking place between Liverpool chairman Martin Broughton and league chief executive Richard Scudamore.The Reds have been seeking clarification on the potential scenario if RBS took temporary charge at Anfield.Sources have indicated a nine point deduction, threatened to football clubs when they go bust like Portsmouth last season, would not materialise.League chiefs crucially consider the debt to rest squarely on the shoulders of Tom Hicks and George Gillett, co-chairmen of the club and owners of Kop Football Holdings.And as Liverpool has proved they have steady revenues - TV rights money, ticket sales, sponsorship - the club would avoid incurring any penalty.The Reds reported a £200m turnover for the first time during the last 12 months, a significant rise compared to previous financial years and Anfield bosses insist the club remains highly profitable.

Source: Liverpool_Echo