Everton have reportedly called off their pursuit of former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez after a backlash from angry Toffees supporters.
The Spaniard had held talks with Everton owner Farhad Moshiri which led to Everton fans leaving banners outside Goodison Park to express their feelings about the former Reds manager.
During his six-year spell at Anfield, Benitez famously led Liverpool to a 3-0 comeback against AC Milan in Istanbul in 2005 which won the club their fifth Champions League title.
The Daily Mail reports that Everton have listened to their supporters and decided to call off their pursuit of Benitez, whose family still live on Merseyside.
Everton legend Neville Southall has echoed the sentiments of many fans, also disagreeing with the appointment of the Spaniard as it would cause too much bad feeling.
Everton's search for Carlo Ancelotti's successor continues, with the club shortlisting Belgium boss Roberto Martinez and Brighton & Hove Albion's Graham Potter amongst others.
Sammy Wynne
