Saints fans have been encouraged to wave white hankies in a Spanish-style protest against Nigel Adkins’ sacking, when Everton visit St Mary’s on Monday night.

Perry McMillan, vice-chairman of the Southampton Independent Supporters Association, wants his fellow Saints fans to show chairman Nicola Cortese - and a live television audience - their support for Adkins following his controversial dismissal.

He believes it is the best way for supporters to show their anger at the manner and timing of former Espanyol coach Mauricio Pochettino’s appointment.

McMillan said: “As Spanish supporters wave white hankies as a form of protest it seems an appropriate way to protest at Nicola Cortese’s ruthless treatment of Nigel Adkins.

“It’s important we send out this message and as this match is live on TV and will be seen throughout Europe, it’s a great opportunity to show how we feel.

“We’re planning on waving our white hankies, tissues or cloth after five minutes of the game, while chanting ‘Nigel Adkins’ in support.

“During the eighties we protested against Ian Branfoot with red cards but white hankies is another simple and innovative way of showing how we feel.

“There’s a lot of respect for Adkins and when you think about how hard he worked to get us into the Premier League, this leaves a bitter taste.

“I’m sure he’ll get another job at a Championship club soon, but this is a major gamble and the reputation of the club is at stake.

“Do we really want to go the way of Chelsea?
“It’s not just about what happened to Adkins, we’ve seen it with the [replacement of the] programme sellers and the way former players are not made welcome anymore.”