Rafa Benitez has given his first press conference since becoming manager of Everton and admitted the decision to cross the Merseyside divide was not a difficult one.
The appointment of Benitez rocked the football world, after Everton opted to go for the legendary former manager of their bitter city rivals Liverpool.
Benitez's unveiling was met with fury from large sections of the fanbase, with banners placed outside the stadium and across Merseyside insisting the Spanish boss would not be welcomed.
Rafa Benitez has addressed Everton fans in his first press conference as Toffees manager
Hostile banners were placed outside Goodison when Benitez was confirmed as manager
Another was left close by to the Spaniard's house on Merseyside with a sinister undertone
Despite the uproar, however, Benitez has used his first public address as Everton boss to outline that he is not afraid of any backlash.