City to base appeal on claims sponsor money was paid by Abu Dhabi government  

A general view of the Manchester City badge with a sticker that reads 'Dirty Cheating Bastards' placed on top outside the Etihad Stadium. Pic: Martin Rickett/PA

Manchester City’s lawyers will present evidence that an Abu Dhabi government body – rather than owner Sheikh Mansour – provided funding to sponsors in the dispute which is at the heart of the club’s legal battle with the Premier League.

City are expected to lodge their appeal against the guilty verdict handed down by an independent commission before today's deadline.