Posted by Rafael Benitez, the new Everton manager, believes that success will win over fans who were critical of his appointment.
After a 0-0 draw in the Merseyside derby in 2007, the 61-year-old former Liverpool manager referred to the Toffees as a “little club.”
A menacing poster was hung near his Merseyside home due to the rivalry between the two clubs. In response to a question concerning his “little club” remark, Benitez said, “It was a long time ago.”
“As a manager, you must protect your club in any situation.”
Benitez, who took over from Carlo Ancelotti after the Italian returned to Real Madrid this month, is the first manager from Merseyside since the 1800s. He was the manager of Liverpool from 2004 to 2010, and now he takes over an Everton side that finished 10th in the Premier League last season.
Some Chelsea fans were also critical of the Spaniard after he was appointed in 2012 and went on to win the Europa League with the club.
Benitez stated that the banner had had no effect on his decision to take the Everton job.
In his first press conference as manager, he added, “The Evertonians around my place are fairly thrilled and they were extremely supportive.”
Source: BBC Sport