The Football League issued the following statement on Thursday afternoon...

The Football League can confirm that the legal representatives of Massimo Cellino have lodged an appeal against The League’s decision that he is subject to a disqualifying condition under its Owners’ and Directors’ Test.

The appeal will be heard by an independent QC, who will have access to independent expert evidence relating to certain aspects of Italian law and will determine the matter following submissions from both parties.

The appeal will be convened at the earliest opportunity, in line with The Football League’s previous commitment to expedite the appeal process to deliver much-needed certainty to all the relevant parties.