SriLanka, Oct. 10 -- Some Premier League clubs were so "astonished" by comments made by Andy Burnham, which appeared to downplay the verdict against Manchester City, that they are now "concerned" about possible political interference in the appeal process, sources have told BBC Sport.

Senior club officials said they were shocked when they heard the prime minister tell the BBC that he would be "really concerned" if Manchester City's owners decided to sell the club after it was found guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules.

They questioned the purpose of his comments and said they had placed the Independent Football Regulator in a difficult position. Burnham is facing increasing scrutiny over his relationship with the club's Ab...