Everton claimed Liverpool council's rejection of plans for their former training ground was "politically motivated", reports the Liverpool Echo.

The Blues were hoping to cover 10% of the cost of their proposed new stadium in Kirkby by building 74 luxury homes on the old Bellefield base, in West Derby.

But Liverpool council rejected the scheme yesterday, despite being told by experts there was "no evidence" to back up residents fears about increased traffic.

It came a day after Knowsley council backed plans for the club to move to Kirkby, which politicians in Liverpool are keen to stop.

Everton today attacked the decision and are now expected to appeal, raising the prospect of a lengthy and costly public inquiry. Ian Ross, Everton's head of PR and external affairs, said: "We are bitterly disappointed at this outcome, which came despite the fact experts told the council to give it the green light.

"We believe this was politically motivated and it was an outrageous decision."