Friday's announcement from the Premier League came as a hammer blow to an Everton side who, having won two of their last three games in England's top flight, were sitting in 14th place and clear of the relegation battle that has marred the club's last two seasons.
However, the deduction for breaching financial rules, which the Merseysiders are appealing, now leaves them with just four points on the board, the same tally as bottom-of-the-table Burnley.
What's your opinion on the bombshell decision and can the Toffees still escape the drop zone before the end of the 2023-24 season? Let us know in the comments below.