THE leader of the city council last night claimed that Liverpool and Everton are closer than ever to agreeing to share a multi-million pound football stadium.
Cllr Mike Storey (left) said the two clubs were "warming" to the prospect, adding that he felt a shared facility "made economic sense".
In addition, he said he rated the chances of a joint stadium actually becoming a reality as now being 60-40 in favour.
However, Liverpool FC last night said they were "surprised" at his comments,, stating that talk of a shared stadium was nothing more than a "red herring".
Cllr Storey made his remarks at a conference called by developers Grosvenor to discuss their proposals for the Paradise Street shopping development.
The council leader took the opportunity to tell an audience of more than 200 developers and professionals that he was in favour of a joint stadium.
He said: "It seems ludicrous for two clubs, both based within the Anfield area, and to be within spitting distance of each other, to have separate grounds.
"Many people have said that a joint stadium is an impossible dream, but I disagree and we are moving closer to making it a reality.
"In fact, I would put the odds at it actually happening as 60-40."
Cllr Storey added: "I have always been in favour of the two clubs sharing facilities because it makes economic sense.
"We live in a city where members of the same family live under the same roof and can still support Liverpool or Everton. So what is wrong with those people having a shared stadium?
"Why spend millions of pounds on two grounds when a shared stadium would release more money for new players. I know there will be diehards who say never, but perhaps now is the time to start thinking the unthinkable.
"Of course, the final decision will have to rest with the boards of the two clubs, but there are warming, softening words emanating from both camps on this issue and this gives me hope for optimism."
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