Play was delayed in Everton's meeting with Manchester City at Goodison Park after a spectator invaded the pitch and handcuffed himself to a goalpost.

The man emerged from the crowd before half-time and attached himself to the frame of City keeper Joe Hart's goal.

After a hold-up which resulted in five minutes of first-half stoppage time, he was released and led away by police.

"He was arrested by Merseyside Police, who are now dealing with the matter," Everton said in statement.

"It transpired that the supporter is a known professional protester, allegedly protesting about an airline's recruitment policy.

"Bolt-cutters were used to remove the offender, who was roundly booed as he was escorted from the ground."

Police said that a 46-year-old man from nearby Southport was arrested for pitch encroachment and was being questioned