Everton's planned friendly with their Chilean counterparts Everton CD is creating great excitement in the South American nation.

President of Everton Chile, Antonio Bloise Ramos, has expressed his 'profound joy that a contest between Everton Chile and Everton Football Club of Liverpool has materialised.

He said: "Our supporters have been eagerly awaiting such a game for a long time now, as, I am told, have yours. The official announcement of the game certainly didn't go unnoticed here in Viña del Mar and the realisation that the game will go ahead has caused widespread excitement across Chile."

Despite the cost of travelling to Liverpool varying between 2,000 and 3,200 dollars per person, interest in watching this momentous match in Everton's history is on the increase. According to Bloise, many more fans may sign up for the trip over the next few weeks.

TV stations in Santiago have shown an interest in televising the game. It looks like Los Ruleteros, founded more than 100 years ago by Anglo-Chilean teenagers inspired by a certain touring side from Walton, are relishing the clash.

They are not turning up just for fun either - insisting they will compete at full throttle to win a game they will treat like a cup final.