Everton fight back! Toffees release statement confirming appeal against 10-point Premier League deduction following fans protests during Man Utd defeat

The football world was stunned when the Toffees were handed the harsh punishment for breaking Profit and Sustainability rules last month, with the deduction plunging them into the relegation zone. After the sanction was confirmed, Everton outlined their desire to appeal the charges - and they have now announced that the process has begun.

The club released a short statement on Friday, which read: "Everton Football Club has today lodged with the Chair of the Premier League’s Judicial Panel its appeal of the decision by a Premier League Commission to impose a 10-point deduction on the Club. An Appeal Board will now be appointed to hear the case."

Everton fans loudly voiced their opposition to the punishment during their most-recent match against Manchester United, with those in attendance at Goodison Park holding up placards which accused the Premier League of 'corruption'. Some supporters also let off fireworks outside the ground, disrupting the broadcast of the game.

Criticism has extended beyond the Toffees faithful too. Former government minister Andy Burnham recently slammed Sky Sports for pulling his interview before the United game, in which he questioned the process that led to the points deduction. Jamie Carragher has also opposed the sanction, claiming Everton are being 'used' as other clubs evade similar investigations into their financial dealings.

Manchester City are also having their finances closely scrutinised at present. They are alleged to have broken Premier League financial rules over 100 times, with a date recently being set for their hearing. Chelsea are another club that may be sweating in the wake of Everton's points deduction. A recent report suggested that the Blues may be investigated for payments made in relation to the transfers of Willian, Samuel Eto'o and Eden Hazard during Roman Abramovich's time at the club.