Everton legend Peter Reid has predicted that the Toffees’ upcoming fixture against Manchester United will be “a great game”.
The Goodison Park cult hero, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, also says the Evertonians “won’t take this lying down” – referring to the blow of their recent 10-point deduction.
On Sunday, Everton contest their first match since they were docked 10 points for Premier League profit and sustainability rules. They will host Man United at Goodison Park on Sunday.
It was the biggest sporting sanction ever handed out by the Premier League, and to say it left a bitter taste in the mouth is an understatement.
The punishment saw Everton drop into the bottom three of the table, though they’re now just two points from safety ahead of matchday 13.
‘The Evertonians won’t take this lying down’
Sean Dyche’s charges will now go up against Man United, who have won four of their last five Premier League games but lost three of their last five in all competitions.
Reid believes the points deduction Everton were handed is “excessive” and feels a review would lead the authorities to view it as a “mistake”.
Then, he said: “I’m there on Sunday against Manchester United and I know for a fact it’ll be a great game.
“I tell you what, the Evertonians won’t take this lying down.”
Everton intend to appeal the decision, saying they are ‘both shocked and disappointed’ by the finding when the announcement was made.
This appeal will be heard by another independent panel, not the same people who brought forward Friday’s verdict.
Until then, Everton will need to brace for another relegation scrap. No doubt it’ll be an intense atmosphere at Goodison on Sunday.