As Manchester City hosts its first match since being found guilty on a number of financial charges, an Etihad Stadium that is usually filled with sky blue may have several areas dotted with yellow.

City played its first match since the guilty verdict last weekend at Liverpool, and the away section at Anfield was filled with fans holding inflatable bananas.

The bananas were seen as an act of defiance as Liverpool fans mercilessly taunted City fans and players. City would have the last laugh on the field as it won 3-0, continuing a perfect Premier League start.

But why were City fans waving the inflatable bananas?

This lighthearted tradition started back in the 1987-88 season. After being demoted down into the English second tier, one City fan decided to take a large inflatable banana to lighten the atmosphere at Maine Road in a tough situation.

City had a striker named Imre Varadi at the time, and fans gave the popular player the nickname "Imre Banana" — giving the bananas a new meaning.

The bananas were prevalent during the 1980s and '90s but have mostly been phased out in the modern era due to the club's move to the Etihad Stadium and 2008 takeover by owners from Abu Dhabi.

After disappearing for some time, City fans decided to bring back the bananas to Anfield after facing boos and chants from the home supporters.

With Ipswich Town coming to town on Saturday, Oct. 17, expect the inflatable versions of the fruit to appear en masse as the fans again try to lighten up the mood.

"It's very nice. I didn't know the history behind the banana, but I hope tomorrow I can see many bananas in the stadium," City coach Enzo Maresca said ahead of the match.

"I think it creates a nice environment for the fans and for everyone that is in the stadium."