DESPITE Everton and Liverpool forging ahead with separate plans, supporters of a shared stadium plan believe it remains a possibility.
Peel Holdings wants to build a new stadium for Everton at Switch Island and Liverpool has its own plans for a new ground in Stanley Park.
But unless finance is in place by March vital European Objective 1 funding earmarked for the Reds' development would be lost.
That would leave Liverpool with two options: extend Anfield; or return to the negotiating table with Everton to discuss a shared stadium.
Neither club nor Peel would comment on the prospect of a ground share, but the ECHO has learned Peel first approached Liverpool and Everton with proposals for a joint ground more than two years ago - after Everton's preferred move to the Kings Dock collapsed and before Liverpool unveiled its own plans for a new ground in the nearby Stanley Park.
Secretary of State for Sport Richard Caborn also favours a ground-share plan and government support could lead to extra funding towards the overall development costs.
His spokesman told the ECHO: "Liverpool and Everton are two great clubs and if they shared a great stadium we would welcome that."
Although Everton has signalled its support for sharing a ground with their neighbours, Liverpool is pursuing its dream stadium in Stanley Park.
Former Liberal Democrat Anfield councillor Joe Kenny heads the Anfield Action Committee which opposes the Stanley Park scheme.
He said today: "Even if the council were to sign it off there is a three month legal window and we would be looking to challenge it in the high court."
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