Everton manager Sean Dyche has revealed that he was "shocked" at hearing the news of the club's 10-point deduction last week.
The Toffees were sanctioned by the Premier League after an independent commission found them guilty of breaking Profitability and Sustainability rules.
That punishment handed out to Everton is the most severe top-flight points deduction in history and leaves the club in the relegation zone, level on points with Burnley at the foot of the table.
Speaking to the media ahead of Everton's clash with Manchester United on Sunday, Dyche was instantly asked for his thoughts on the decision by the Premier League.
"I think like everyone in these parts, we were shocked, and seemingly the wave of noise after that, seemed like most people in football, around football were shocked." Dyche answered.
"The enormity of it, disproportionate is a word that has been used by the club. Obviously we are going to feel a bit aggrieved by that." the Everton manager added.
Dyche did not get carried away emotionally though, as he maintained his stance that he is still only focused about what happens on the pitch.
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"On the other hand, it does not change the focus, the focus since I got here has been about sorting things out on the pitch, getting the team to win, getting the team to feel different, performances to be different.
"We were obviously on the right lines for that, and delivering strong performances I felt, this has just given us a push backwards, to then come forwards again. The job hasn't changed for me, it has just made it more difficult" Dyche claims.
The manager also praised his squad's reaction to the punishment, revealing that they have remained professional and are keen to get out on the pitch to fight to get Everton away from trouble.
Dyche said: "All the senior boys have rallied and said 'look, it is what it is, let's get on with it' and that has been the clear message from me to the players, and from them to each other, let's take it on, let's take on the next challenge, there has been plenty of them since I have been here."
Everton supporters are set to take part in mass protests ahead of and during the game on Sunday, and Dyche backed the fans to get behind the team, like he claims they have done throughout his reign so far.
Dyche stated: "The fans will be ready to deliver, like we will. I think they do feel it has been unjust and it is time to stand even stronger. I think the Evertonians will be right there for us, they have been since I've been here, so I don't see why that should change, [the points deduction] will probably enhance it."
Everton fans have raised over £40,000 in an 'atmosphere fund' that will produce anti-Premier League banners, flags and cards, as well as a plane that will fly over the Etihad Stadium during Manchester City's clash with Liverpool tomorrow.
