1996–97 FA Premier League

To protect the integrity of the game, and avoid fielding a team of untried teenagers including three goalkeepers, Middlesbrough called off the match.

This sanction meant Coventry City, who had been in the top division since 1967, finished in 17th place and avoided relegation.

The decision was controversial, and later resurfaced in 2006–07 when West Ham escaped a points deduction and subsequently avoided relegation.

They replaced Manchester City, Queens Park Rangers and Bolton Wanderers, who were relegated to the First Division after a top flight presence of seven, thirteen and one year respectively.

(as of 11 May 1997) Manchester United drew the highest average home attendance in the 1996-97 edition of the Premier League.

Newcastle's Alan Shearer was the top scorer for the third and final time, with 25 goals.
Middlesbrough's Fabrizio Ravanelli was the only player to score a hat-trick more than once during the 1996–97 season.
Manchester United's Eric Cantona assisted 12 goals for the club in the 1996–97 Premier League season.
Southampton's Graeme Souness was the only manager to win the Manager of the Month award more than once.