Former Everton manager Sam Allardyce says members of the old board are unhappy with Rafa Benitez's appointment.

Everton confirmed the appointment of former Liverpool boss Benitez after weeks of speculation following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti to rejoin Real Madrid earlier this month.

Allardyce claims to have heard rumours of discontent among the Everton board following Benitez's appointment.

"He is definitely going to split the fans," he told Sky Sports.

"There is no doubt about that and I've actually heard on the grapevine that it's split the board as well.

"Some of the old board aren't happy with that decision, so I have heard. But that's only rumour of course."

"But certainly the fans. Some will be okay and some will be very much against it. Like with every manager that goes into Everton, it depends on whether you live up to their expectations."