Everton have stated all matchday and non-matchday security arrangements are being reviewed following the weekend’s events. The latest statement comes after Merseyside Police confirmed they were liaising with the club following alleged ‘threats’ towards Everton directors before Saturday’s game against Southampton. The club released a statement before that clash – which saw protests against 7he Everton hierarchy – suggesting board members had been instructed not to attend due to a “real and credible threat to their safety and security”. Club sources would later claim that Prof Barrett-Baxendale was ‘put in a headlock’ as she left the Goodison Park directors’ box, meanwhile another incident reportedly saw her car surrounded and spat at, while chairman Bill Kenwright is said to have received death threats.
Everton’s latest statement following the weekend’s events read: “Everton Football Club is reviewing all matchday and non-matchday security arrangements following the home game with Southampton on Saturday. Enhanced security procedures and protocols are being put in place for the Club’s players and staff following incidents at this and previous games. Everton’s Directors were instructed to not attend Saturday’s fixture following a thorough security assessment in advance of the game. The guidance was based on intelligence gathered and information received directly by the Club. Everton’s game with Southampton was made a high-risk fixture following a consultation with Merseyside Police. Following further discussions with the force, the Club can confirm that Everton’s next fixture at Goodison Park (Arsenal on Saturday 4 February) will also be categorised as high risk. The Club will not be making any comment related to specific historic incidents. The health, safety and security of our supporters, staff and players is and will always remain our top priority. The Club would like to thank the vast majority of supporters who behaved impeccably before, during and after the game with Southampton – as they have done throughout the season.”
