The prospect of a ground-share between Liverpool and Everton has been raised once again as both clubs run into problems over their respective new stadiums.
Plans have been in place for some time for Liverpool to build a new ground on Stanley Park, but the club's American owners have been forced to downsize then put on hold the development, as Tom Hicks struggles to raise the necessary funds.
The 60,000-seater stadium will cost around £300million, but Hicks has been thus far unable to borrow the money he needs to complete the project, given the current worldwide financial problems.
Meanwhile, Everton's proposal to move to a new 55,000-capacity ground in Kirby, a scheme that has proved extremely unpopular with the club's fans, has hit problems.
The planned stadium was to be a joint venture with Tesco, who would build a retail development alongside the stadium. However, Liverpool City Council have raised serious objections to such a proposal, as have local residents.
All of which raises the possibility of a shared ground, which had previously been rejected by all and sundry.
Warren Bradley, leader of the Liberal Democrat majority on the city council, told The Guardian:
"I'd back the redevelopment of Goodison but you can't unless Everton make a commitment. If they want to come to the table, we're always ready and willing.
"I've also been working behind the scenes on a joint Liverpool and Everton stadium. I've talked to the sports minister and to the NWDA [Northwest Regional Development Agency] and I've spoken to [Everton's chairman] Bill Kenwright."
It will be interesting to see how fans of both clubs react should these plans go any further.
