Everton fans make feelings clear on Rafa Benitez amid talks with former Newcastle United manager
Everton fans have put up banners at Goodison Park opposing the appointment of former Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez.
Benitez – who left Chinese side Dalian Professional early this year – is in talks over succeeding Carlo Ancelotti at the Premier League club.
Everton’s interest in appointing Merseyside-based Benitez drew a mixed response from fans – and riled broadcasting duo Richard Keys and Andy Gray.
The 61-year-old – who left Newcastle United two years ago after failing to agree a new deal at St James’s Park with owner Mike Ashley – guided Liverpool to the Champions League title in 2005, and one crude banner referenced Benitez’s association with the Anfield club, while another said he was “not welcome” at Goodison Park.
Everton legend Neville Southall told talkSPORT: “I think Rafa Benitez’s a good manager, but is he right for Everton? No. Not a chance! He's Liverpool, the fans won't have it. If he comes into that ground, he’s going to have to produce something special.”