Rafael Benitez releases statement on Everton sacking as former Liverpool boss bemoans financial issues and injuries and did not realise magnitude of task at Goodison Park

Rafael Benitez claims he did not know the 'magnitude of the task' at Everton after he was sacked as their manager.

The Spaniard released a statement on his website in the wake of his departure from Goodison Park after just six months at the helm.

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It was always an appointment that was not going to be greeted with warmth by every Evertonian, given his history with arch rivals Liverpool.

With that said, results to begin with were positive and fans were getting on board.

However, just seven wins in 22 Premier League games - which included just one win since September - saw him relieved of his duties.

Benitez, who made three signings in January, believes their form would have picked up on the second half of the season and suggested there were more problems than he expected behind the scenes at the Merseyside club.

"We knew it wouldn't be easy, and that it was a big challenge, both emotionally and in terms of sport," his statement read.

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"My love for this city, for Merseyside and its people, made me accept this challenge, but it is only when you are inside that you realise the magnitude of the task.

"From the very first day, my staff and myself worked as we always do, with commitment and full dedication, we didn't only have to get results, but we also had to win over people's hearts.

"However, the financial situation and then the injuries that followed made things even harder. I am convinced that we would have been better once the injured players were back and with the arrival of the new signings. 

"The road to success isn't easy and sadly, nowadays in football there is a search for immediate results and there is always less and less patience; unfortunately circumstances have determined the results and it won't be possible to continue this project.

"In any case, thank you to the board, to the staff, to the players, and to those fans who have supported us during this time.

"My best wishes for EFC. Rafa Benitez."