Everton and Liverpool have released a joint statement condemning the defacing of buildings and murals which occurred ahead of today's Merseyside derby.
The Trent Alexander-Arnold mural, commissioned by The Anfield Wrap in appreciation of the hard work undertaken by the charity 'Fans Supporting Foodbanks, was today targeted and covered in blue spray paint. Nearby artworks featuring Ian St John, Roger Hunt, Mohamed Salah and Jordan Henderson suffered the same fate.
Responding to the above incidents, chair of Fans Supporting Foodbanks Dave Kelly told the ECHO : "It is simple, I do not condone or condemn such behaviour but for the last seven years we have run campaigns under the motto 'hunger does not wear club colours'. Whether it is red or blue committing these crimes they need to give their heads a wobble.
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"It is just unhelpful and I want to ask fans to grow up and realise that this city is facing times of adversity. There are lots of things going on people going hungry and we have had four murders in the last few weeks. So they need to grow up and be respectful, stop vandalising everything and put tribal differences aside."
A separate statement from Everton and Liverpool read: "Both Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs jointly condemn the defacing of buildings and murals ahead of the Merseyside derby.
"Racist and offensive graffiti has been daubed across multiple sites in north Liverpool this morning around Anfield and Goodison.
"Both clubs will work together with Merseyside Police and will support the investigation in finding those responsible. Hate has no place in football.
"Together, Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs and their supporters will continue in representing our city in the fight against all forms of discrimination."
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