EFL charges Rochdale AFC and 'a number of other individuals' in relation to attempted 'hostile takeover' of the club

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Rochdale AFC and 'a number of other individuals' have been charged with breaches of EFL (English Football League) regulations in connection to the 'hostile takeover' of the club last summer.

The individuals – who have not been named – have been the subject of disciplinary investigations by the EFL regarding the acquisition of shares in Rochdale AFC by Morton House in July 2021.

The attempted takeover became subject to an EFL investigation in August 2021 as to whether "the club, any official, any relevant person(s) and/or any other persons involved complied with the requirements of the regulations in respect of the acquisition of shares in the club in July 2021."

The EFL said at the time that: "It is alleged that Morton House MGT acquired control of the club, and a number of individuals became relevant persons without the prior consent of the EFL in accordance with the Owners’ and Directors’ Test (OADT)."

The 'takeover' was abandoned in August after those involved withdrew from the EFL Owners’ and Directors’ test.

In August, the EFL said: "Morton House MGT, its directors, and representatives, have confirmed to the League they are refusing to co-operate with the League’s ongoing investigations. Despite these developments, the EFL will be continuing with its disciplinary investigations into this matter and will take the most appropriate action available to it under its regulations."
 

Read more: 'Hostile takeover' of Rochdale AFC abandoned after 'investors' withdraw from EFL approval processPublished: 23 August 2021

Having concluded its investigation, the EFL has today (Wednesday 16 March) determined there is “sufficient evidence to justify issuing various charges of misconduct.”

The multiple matters will now be referred to an Independent Disciplinary Commission.

Rochdale AFC has released the following statement in relation to the charges brought against the club: "The club has fully co-operated with the EFL at every stage of their investigation and will continue to do so, having already provided the EFL with a considerable volume of their evidence. 

"The club will now consider its legal position with regards to the charges. No further comment will be made at this moment in time."