‘Embarrassing’ Man City fans unfurl banner for lawyer defending FFP charges
Manchester City fans have been branded "embarrassing" after they unfurled a banner showing their support for the lawyer defending them against their Premier League charges.
Lord Pannick KC is set to represent City again in their battle to clear their name after being hit with more than 100 alleged breaches of financial rules by the Premier League earlier this week. Pannick already comes with a standout reputation after helping City overturn their two-year UEFA ban as well as advising former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson over 'Partygate' allegations.
The 66-year-old works for Blackstone Chambers and is reported to charge staggering fees of up to £400,000 per week – the same amount as the wages of City's top earner, Kevin De Bruyne. Nevertheless, if Pannick can bring a successful outcome for City, his contribution could be worth far more amid the possible threat of relegation or expulsion from the league if City are found guilty.
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City fans booed the Premier League anthem ahead of their match against Aston Villa at the Etihad on Sunday – the first time they have played since the charges were announced. Manager Pep Guardiola got a huge cheer from the home support following his fierce rant at his press conference on Friday where he defended the club's actions.
And City supporters have shown their appreciation for Pannick's work, with a section of their supporters bringing a banner along to the match with them, which read: "Pannick on the streets of London." The slogan is a reference to a line from the popular song 'Panic' by 80s rock band The Smiths, while the Premier League's head office is based out of the nation's capital.
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However, while City's fans may be smarting about their clever stunt, other fans on Twitter were critical. "That's embarrassing," one fan wrote, as another blasted: "You sad entitled pr***s. I hope you get sent to the Vanarama [National League]."
One fan suggested City's supporters were "treating a lawyer like a new signing," while another joked that the Premier League will be represented by hapless fictional cartoon lawyer Lionel Hutz from 'The Simpsons'.
Others laid into the "cringe" banner, with reactions ranging from "so incredibly small time" to "the softest thing ever on a football terrace". One rival fan said: "That banner is as good as the club and fans – Plastic."
Another suggested the banner was just part of a wider issue, writing: "Perfect illustration of what modern football has come to, working man's game to cheerleading lawyers."
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