Everton have instructed their board of directors to avoid Saturday's Premier League clash against Southampton because of a “real and credible threat to their safety and security".
The Toffees currently sit in the relegation zone on 15 points ahead of this afternoon's 3pm kick-off at Goodison Park.
And after recent defeats to Manchester United, Brighton and Wolves, tensions are high amongst supporters.
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In fact, the club have released a statement on their official website ahead of kick-off against Southampton saying the club's directors have been instructed to avoid the game as a safety precaution.
It reads: "Chairman Bill Kenwright, CEO Denise Barrett-Baxendale, Chief Finance & Strategy Officer Grant Ingles and Non-Executive Director Graeme Sharp have reluctantly accepted the outcome of the safety assessment carried out by security advisors.
"The Board members received the instruction following malicious and unacceptably threatening correspondence received by the Club and increasing incidents of anti-social behaviour – including targeted physical aggression - at recent home matches.
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"A Security & Safety Advisor said: “Following a thorough risk assessment, and in response to tangible threats received by the Club and intelligence we have gathered, the Club’s Board members have been told they must not attend today’s fixture.”
"A Club spokesperson added: “This is an unprecedented decision for Everton Football Club – never before has our entire Board of Directors been ordered not to attend a match on safety grounds. It is a profoundly sad day for Everton and Evertonians.”
Everton owner Farhad Moshiri recent declared a vote of confidence towards manager Frank Lampard.
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Lampard was recently asked if the news had lifted the pressure on him. He said: “No. It’s my job to get on with things. I’m not making light of the statement at all but, genuinely, I’ve been in this game a long time.
"I left Chelsea having beaten Luton in the FA Cup and while preparing for the next game. It’s the job. I don’t get carried away when it’s the other way around.
"I don’t win a game or two and expect a new contract. You just have to work.”
The former England international also said the fans have an "absolute right" to protest.
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He added: “Myself and the players have to be the first ones, me the first, who do not get distracted by anything because this is a big game for us in terms of our league position, the points, and what it would mean if can win the game.
“The fans have an absolute right to protest.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Everton, Southampton, Premier League
