'Premier League = corrupt' - Multiple planes flown over Man City vs Liverpool game as furious Everton fans stage banner protest before Amnesty International call for release of activist

Angry Everton fans have demonstrated their frustrations with the Premier League by flying planes over Manchester City's top-of-the-table clash with Liverpool on Saturday at the Etihad. "Premier League - corrupt" read a banner in protest at the Premier League's recent decision to dock the Toffees 10 points for breaches of Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules. Another banner organised by Amnesty International was also flown over the game. The banner read "UAE: Free Ahmed Mansoor", calling for the release of the prominent activist in the United Arab Emirates.

Everton have been handed the biggest points deduction in Premier League history in a move which manager Sean Dyche has admitted has left the club in shock. The punishment has also prompted speculation as to the type of sanction that could be handed out to Manchester City. The Cityzens are under investigation and charged with over 100 breaches of financial rules, leading to claims they could face a stiffer penalty that Everton. Manager Pep Guardiola has insists he will not resign even if City are relegated to League One.

Everton fans have also staged a protest outside the Premier League's headquarters in London. One fan, Alan Newton, told the PA the 10-point penalty was too harsh.

"Nobody’s saying that we’re not guilty as a club of anything, but the points that have been taken off is far too harsh a penalty," he said. "Do I think that some of the other bigger clubs are going to get penalties like this or it’s going to play out the same? Probably not. I think the likelihood is we’ll get a reduced penalty, it’ll set a precedent for other clubs and we’ll see what happens next.”

The points deduction has dropped Everton into the relegation zone ahead of their next match against Manchester United in the Premier League. The Toffees are expected to appeal the sanction and will hope to have their points reinstated.