Merseyside Police are investigating a “threatening” anti-Rafael Benitez banner hung close to the Spaniard’s home on the Wirral overnight.
An image shared on social media showed a white sheet with the words ‘We know where you live. Don’t sign’ – appearing to refer to Benitez’s likely impending appointment at Everton – hung over a garden wall in the former Liverpool manager’s home village of Caldy.
However according to the force, the message was placed outside the "wrong house".
“We can confirm police are investigating reports of a threatening banner at a location in Caldy today, Monday 28 June,” said a statement from Merseyside Police.
“At around 7am, it was reported that a banner made from bed sheets had been placed over a wall and bushes on a residential driveway, with wording which is thought to target football manager Rafa Benitez.”
There has been considerable opposition among some sections of Everton’s fanbase to the likelihood of Benitez becoming Carlo Ancelotti’s successor at Goodison Park.
Offensive banners have previously been put up at the stadium but this incident was close to Benitez’s home.
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Detective Inspector Darren Taylor said: “This message has understandably caused some distress and worry for residents in the area.
“Due to the football language used, we suspect that it was aimed at Rafa Benitez – but whoever placed the message left it outside the wrong house.
“If anyone has information about who produced the banner or helped to put it up, please let us know as soon as possible.”
CCTV and witness enquiries are being carried out in the area.
Earlier this month, when Everton's eagerness to hold talks with Benitez first came to light, X-rated banners were hung at Goodison Park.
Bedsheets declaring "Benitez not welcome" and "F*** off Benitez you fat Kopite c***" were hung from gates outside the ground.
Benitez's Anfield past has sparked opposition to his appointment among Evertonians.
Benitez, 61, won one Champions League title, one UEFA Super Cup and one FA Cup at Liverpool.
He is expected to become the fifth Everton manager in as many years, replacing Carlo Ancelotti after his return to Real Madrid.
