EVERTON FC chief executive Robert Elstone yesterday dismissed “risible” calls for the appointment of an interim board to oversee the sale of the club.

And he also urged supporters to “pull together” and warned against “fracture” in the fanbase less than 48 hours before planned action against the Goodison hierarchy.

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright has come under pressure from fans’ groups in recent weeks to stand aside for a temporary board aimed at attracting new investment.

The Blue Union, representing several supporter factions, have arranged a peaceful protest ahead of tomorrow’s home Premier League clash against Aston Villa.

But Elstone launched a vigorous defence of the Everton board while stressing the need for all fans to remain united.

“The board of directors, myself as the CEO and the senior management all have an ongoing responsibility to do what is right by Evertonians,” he said.

“The suggestion of a completely new group of individuals coming in and essentially doing what the current board is doing is risible and completely unnecessary.

“Everton Football Club is for sale, despite accusations to the contrary. This has been the case for three years and it will remain the case until such time as someone is found with the finances capable of ensuring we can compete at the very highest level of the game both at home and in Europe.