The under-fire Everton hierarchy were instructed not to attend Saturday's Premier League fixture against Southampton over fears for the safety of club chiefs.
The drastic decision comes at a time of significant backlash towards the board of directors after a dismal start to the season under Frank Lampard. The Toffees have been eliminated from both domestic cup competitions and went into the weekend languishing in the relegation zone with just three wins in 18 Premier League games.
A statement released on the club's website earlier on Saturday read: "Everton's Board of Directors have been instructed not to attend today's Premier League fixture against Southampton because of a 'real and credible threat to their safety and security'.
