UK Landlord Forum / Life

I have terminated a tenancy 2.5 yr. The tenant gave notice. As he came in contact with me via a friend and also I did not fully understand that the deposit scheme was compulsory I did not placed into a scheme
On final inspection I have now verified that there are many things missing, damage, and also part of rent not paid.
I have upheld part of the deposit but the tenant is going to take me to Court. He will not settle.
The tenant has always paid in late and generally not been that precise. I have always paid for any repair or else while never shown receipt just on trust.
Can a tenant demand 3 times the deposit back after the tenancy agreement is finished?
What can happen to me?

To the best of my knowledge the most he is going to get back is his deposit. Let him take you to court at his expense and let a judge decide who owes what