Merseyside rivals Everton and Liverpool have confirmed that they will not be sharing a new stadium.

Talks had taken place about the possibility of a groundshare, with a view to Everton sharing Liverpool’s proposed new Stanley Park ground.

But the plan was rejected by both sets of supporters and the scheme always looked unlikely with Everton unable to provide adequate funding for their share of the ground.

A Liverpool council spokesman said: “It’s disappointing that both sides have been unable to reach agreement.”

“However, the existing plan for a new Anfield is part of a major regeneration of the Anfield and Breckfield area.

“We fully intend to deliver that because of the economic benefits it will bring to an area which badly needs them.

“Of course, we will also do everything we can to help Everton find a 21st century stadium for the club and its fans.”

Everton chief executive Keith Wyness told Everton’s website on Tuesday: “We have said all along that we had three options – a shared stadium, the redevelopment of Goodison Park and a stand-alone stadium of our own.”

Liverpool now intend to build their own ground, despite costs escalating from an initial estimate of £80m to £110m.

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry said: “The joint stadium proposal has been thoroughly examined over an extended period of time and has now been rejected.

“But as we have consistently pointed out, this is much more than just a new ground for Liverpool Football Club.

“It has always been about the regeneration of north Liverpool and the benefits it will bring to a local community that desperately needs them.

“With the issue now finally resolved, we hope that all parties involved can pull together to get this project delivered as quickly as possible.”