By Kevin Phillips

21st May, 2022 | 11:28am

Everton news: Expert demands 'harsh sanctions' as 'disgraceful' controversy analysed

Kevin Phillips has defended Patrick Vieira and called for “harsh sanctions” after Everton became the latest in a string of clubs to allow a “dangerous” pitch invasion.

The former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the footballing powers must take drastic action before someone is “hospitalised or seriously hurt”.

In footage posted to Twitter by Sky Sports News (19 May), Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira can be seen kicking out at an Everton fan who invaded the pitch following the Toffees’ 3-2 win over the Frenchman’s side.

Earlier that day, a Nottingham Forest fan was jailed after running onto the pitch and headbutting Billy Sharp in the aftermath of defeating Sheffield United in the Championship play-off semi-final.

The FA confirmed in a statement (20 May) that they are “reviewing regulations to help stamp this behaviour out” after a spate of ugly incidents.

Phillips suggested the answer could be to boost police and steward numbers – or even reintroduce fences around the perimeter of the pitch.

“I’ve got no issues with what Vieira did,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.

“I know footballers and managers are supposed to be role models, but I don’t care.

“You’ve got every right to stick up for yourself if you’re put in that situation. It’s a disgrace.

“Something has to be done. Harsh sanctions have to be put in place.

“Is it going to take someone getting seriously hurt for things to change? You look at Billy Sharp, that could have been really serious.

“This needs to be nipped in the bud. Whether it comes with more policing or stewarding, fences around the edge of the pitch.

“Something has to happen.

“It’s been happening at far too many matches, and it’s not acceptable.”

In other news, Kieran Maguire claims “eyebrows have been raised” at Everton’s £170m claim as new details emerge.