‘Not the safest job in the world’ - ex-Everton defender on Rafa Benitez’s future amid sack calls

Ashley Williams believes that Rafa Benitez remains in a "tricky position" as Everton manager despite a 3-2 victory at Hull City in the FA Cup.

The Toffees managed to spare their blushes against the Championship outfit to move into the fourth round of the competition

‘It’s the same things we keep talking about week in, week out’

The visitors required extra-time at the MKM Stadium, with substitute Andros Townsend's long-range strike ensuring a banana skin was avoided.

Heading into the game, Everton had won just one of their previous 12 Premier League games and Benitez has come under serious pressure among fans.

At Hull, some travelling supporters displayed a banner telling the Spaniard to leave the Goodison Park hot seat.

Williams, who made 73 appearances for the Blues between 2016-2018, reckons that the way Benitez continues to set up his side isn't helping.

Speaking after the game on BBC One, he said: “It's not the safest job in the world I don't think.

“There were banners and there's obviously a little bit of grumbling going on within the fan base.

“I just don't think he does himself any favours because it's the same things we keep talking about week in, week out.

“There are problems at Everton but he doesn't help himself in the way they play, the formation. In my opinion, it's not working.

“We highlighted some things today against the team. No disrespect but they're in the Championship and exposed Everton.

“It's the same thing we saw last weekend so he doesn't help himself and doesn't come out and galvanise the whole club.

“He's in a bit of a tricky position but does have the experience in football to get himself out.”

Deep-rooted problems

Benitez succeeded Carlo Ancelotti as manager in June.

He took charge amid financial problems, with Everton only spending £1.7 million last summer.

However, given the cash that the Toffees have wasted since Farhad Moshiri's 2016 takeover - coupled with the January arrivals of Vitaliy Mykolenko and Nathan Patterson for substantial fees- Alan Shearer believes it will take time for Everton's fortunes to be turned around.

The former Newcastle striker said: “Not all the problems at that club are his. I know they've had injuries but you just have to look at the past - they're deep-rooted at that club.

“It's going to take time to get Everton where they want to be. They've given him the job - whether all the fan base agree or not.

“They've got to try to stick with it because they've backed him in the transfer window with two new players who haven't been cheap. That sends a message they're going to back him.

“They've got rid of the director of football [Marcel Brands], it sounds as if he wanted it to happen.

“It's not going to be a quick fix at Everton, it's going to take time, I think a long time.”