Everton supporters are preparing to stage a series of protests before and during their game against Manchester United on Sunday, in response to the 10-point deduction imposed on their club by the Premier League.
Everton hit with harsh penalty for breaching finance rules
The Toffees were found guilty of breaking the profit and sustainability rules, which limit the losses that clubs can make over a three-year period. The Premier League said that Everton had failed to provide sufficient evidence of their financial situation and future projections, and that they had breached the rules by a significant margin.
Everton have appealed against the decision, which has plunged them into the relegation zone, and claimed that they had cooperated fully with the investigation. They also argued that the penalty was disproportionate and unfair, especially compared to the lenient treatment of other clubs who had been involved in the failed European Super League project.
Everton fans raise funds and banners to voice their anger
Everton fans have been outraged by the Premier League’s verdict, and have launched a campaign to protest against the governing body, Sky Sports, and other clubs who they believe have benefited from the punishment. They have raised over £30,000 in a fighting fund to make banners, flags, and leaflets, and have also organised online petitions and social media campaigns.
The fans plan to display their messages of discontent outside Goodison Park and the Lowry Hotel, where the Manchester United team will be staying, before the match. They also intend to disrupt the Sky Sports broadcast during the game, which is the main Super Sunday fixture, by making noise, throwing objects, and invading the pitch.
Everton’s future in doubt amid takeover talks and legal threats
The points deduction has also cast a shadow over Everton’s future, as it could jeopardise the potential takeover by American investment firm 777Partners, who had been set to buy the club for £500m. The deal was expected to provide a financial boost and a fresh start for the struggling club, but the new owners may reconsider their offer in light of the penalty and the risk of relegation.
Everton could also face legal action from other clubs, such as Leeds, Leicester, and Burnley, who could sue them for damages and compensation, claiming that the points deduction had affected their positions in the league table and their chances of qualifying for European competitions.
Everton hope to bounce back on the pitch against Man Utd
Despite the off-field turmoil, Everton will hope to put up a strong performance on the pitch against Manchester United, who are also under pressure after a poor start to the season. The hosts will be boosted by the return of Anthony Gordon, who scored the winner against the Red Devils in April, and the availability of James Rodriguez, who had been sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Everton manager Rafa Benitez said that he was confident that his players would not be distracted by the protests and the points deduction, and that they would focus on the game. He said that he had the full support of the fans, and that he was determined to turn the situation around.
