Everton ‘make contact’ with legendary figure amid Rafa Benitez sack claims
Rafa Benitez sack reports are growing at Goodison Park – with multiple papers now claiming Everton are already in talks with a club legend to replace him at the helm.
Benitez has come under fire of late as Everton suffered a string of defeats. Indeed, the Toffees have lost seven of their last nine Premier League outings. They face Chelsea on Thursday night and another torrid evening is predicted.
Their cause is difficult with a string of injuries to key personnel. Indeed, they face an even bigger crisis after two more of their leading stars were added to the injury list.
Despite their struggles, Benitez recently appeared to come out of an Everton crisis meeting with even greater power. Indeed, he received a big show of faith and more transfer power as the Toffees pulled the plug instead on Marcel Brands.
The club then responded with a much-needed 2-1 win over Arsenal at Goodison. However, the 3-1 loss at Crystal Palace over the weekend has seen the heat rise on Benitez once again.
Rafa Benitez sack reports growing
Indeed, Benitez has never been a popular appointment with Everton fans. And the Spaniard faced further outrage from travelling supporters fans over his decision to withdraw Richarlison with his side trailing 2-0 at Selhurst Park.
As such, The Sun claims Toffees chiefs are now once again considering calling time on Benitez.
And they are reportedly already in talks with Wayne Rooney over a return to Goodison Park.
As per the paper, informal talks are already underway between the club and Rooney should Benitez be fired.
And while owner Farhad Moshiri is desperate for the 61-year-old to succeed, contingency plans are being made.
Rooney began his career at Everton and returned for a second stint later in his career, is catching the eye at Derby.
Amid their financial difficulties, he has managed to keep morale high at Pride Park. Furthermore, a series of decent results, despite the trying circumstances, have seen his reputation as a manager grow.
Rooney loyal to Derby
It’s not the first time Rooney has seen his name linked elsewhere. Indeed, Newcastle reportedly considered an approach following Steve Bruce’s dismissal.
Rooney, however, was quick to play down the speculation, insisting his energies remain with the Rams.
When asked about the links on, Rooney told DerbyshireLive: “I saw that Tuesday morning.
“From my point of view I cannot stop speculation, I get that. But I have had no contact at all with Newcastle United and obviously, as I have stated before, I am committed to this football club.”
An approach from Everton – the club he supports – however, may cause Rooney to think twice.
Indeed, with Rooney seemingly helpless in preventing the Rams’ slide towards League One, a return to Goodison may well tempt him.
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