Sheffield United taking West Ham to court

If English Sheffield United can't earn promotion, it will find another club to pay for the cost of relegation.

The club is looking at suing West Ham for its role in the Carlos Tevez third-party signing. West Ham beat out Sheffield United for the final spot in the Premier League. Sheffield United ended up relegated to the second tier.

Sheffield United estimated the cost of relegation between GBP 30 million and GBP 50 million, and say they have new evidence that deals with West Ham's blundering third-party termination attempt.

"After consideration and discussion with our legal advisers Sheffield United are today initiating legal proceedings against West Ham United," a Sheffield spokesman said. "We are seeking substantial compensation for our relegation from the Premier League."

Toby Craig, a member of Sheffield United's legal team, told Skysports News: "After careful consideration and discussion with our legal advisors, Sheffield United are today initiating legal proceedings against West Ham United to seek substantial compensation for our relegation from the Premier League.

"West Ham have admitted to lying to the Premier League in order to secure the registration of Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez, which is also a breach of West Ham's contract with all members of the Premier League, including Sheffield United.

"This action is distinct from the arbitration proceedings between the club and the Premier League during the close season.

"We have always said that we will do everything in our power to secure justice for Sheffield United and help it restore integrity for the reputation of English football which has been tarnished by this affair."

The Blades recently failed in their High Court bid to force the Premier League to take disciplinary action against West Ham. An arbitration process appeal also failed.

Source: euFootball.BIZ © Copyright 2006 - All rights reserved.