Everton will deploy private security officers and a ring of steel for their final home match of the season — but insist the measures are not down to the threat of relegation.
Immediately after Sunday’s 3-0 defeat by Manchester City at Goodison Park, fans noticed large numbers of stewards forming a protective barrier around the tunnel and on to the playing surface.
Many believed it was a trial run of what could be a crucial afternoon when Bournemouth visit on the final day of the season, with Everton fighting to avoid a first relegation since 1951.
The Toffees have been beset by on and off-field issues this season, with fans repeatedly protesting against owner Farhad Moshiri and the club’s board.
Chief executive Denise Barrett-Baxendale and chairman Bill Kenwright have not attended a home game since January amid the unrest.
At the loss to City, noticeably more stewards than usual, including some from private firm G4S, were present.
While that will again be the case for the visit of Bournemouth on May 28, insiders say they will not be in place to deal with the potential ramifications of Everton going down.
Instead, they say they are reacting to the Premier League and FA’s sharp focus on pitch encroachment and want to avoid a repeat of the £300,000 fine dished out to the club following an invasion after the match against Crystal Palace last May, in which a spectacular comeback ensured Everton’s survival.
Officials say the activity at the City game was a demonstration that they have a plan in place and the resources available to deal with an invasion, and add that external security groups have been used throughout the season due to casual staff shortages.