Gary Neville jokes about Man City’s FFP charges as Micah Richards unimpressed
Gary Neville couldn't help himself but crack a joke at Manchester City's expense to poke fun at colleague Micah Richards.
The Sky Sports pundits were both in the studio for City's 3-1 win over Aston Villa on Sunday. After the game, Neville and Richards were sat side by side as presenter Kelly Cates told viewers what was coming up after the show.
Next on the channel was a documentary about City's time in the third division 20 years ago, entitled 'We're not really here: Manchester City'. As Cates read out the title, Neville quickly quipped: "You might not be in a couple of years."
READ MORE: Man City fans boo Premier League anthem after FFP rule breaking allegations
Neville's joke comes in a week where City have been hit with more than 100 charges by the Premier League for allegedly breaching financial rules. If found guilty, potential punishments could include points deductions – which could result in relegation – or expulsion from the division.
City deny any wrongdoing and are preparing to fight the charges after hiring top lawyer Lord Pannick KC – who helped them successfully appeal against a two-year ban given to them by UEFA previously.
Neville's joke didn't go down well with ex-City defender Richards, who groaned after hearing it, before telling the Manchester United legend: "Tone it down Gary, will you."
Neville replied: "Only joking Micah, relax," before adding with a shrug and a smile on his face: "You can't have a joke anymore."
Cates interjected: "We can't pre-judge the outcome of any investigation, as you well know."
The Premier League announced the charges last Monday after the culmination of a four-year investigation into City's finances between 2009-2018. During that time, City won the Premier League on three occasions.
City are alleged to have broken the spending rules put in place by the Premier League, where clubs cannot spend more than their allocated limit, which is determined by income. They are also alleged to have not provided accurate information as well as being accused of not fully cooperating with the investigation.
HAVE YOUR SAY: Will Man City win the title this season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
The case is now set to be heard before an independent commission. City issued a statement to say the club welcomed the review and insist they have a "body of irrefutable evidence" which will back up their denial of the allegations and prove their innocence.
City manager Pep Guardiola then launched a fierce defence of the club in his press conference on Friday, insisting: “I am fully convinced that we will be innocent." No date has been set for the conclusion of the independent commission.
READ NEXT:
- Fans puzzled as Gary Neville calls Jack Grealish penalty 'dive' a 'karaoke-type movement'
'Embarrassing' Man City fans unfurl banner for lawyer defending them against FFP charges
Aston Villa fans feel 'betrayed' as Jack Grealish 'dives' for penalty versus boyhood club
Source: Read Full Article