The force said it did not believe a crime had been committed in the incident, which occurred during Sunday's 1-1 draw at Goodison Park.

Everton held their own investigation and also concluded that no offence had been committed.

A club statement read: "Everton takes all reports of hate crime seriously."

The statement added: "After a thorough investigation, which included reviewing CCTV footage, speaking to witnesses and working alongside officers from Merseyside Police, Everton officials have concluded that there was no evidence of racist behaviour.

"We would like to reaffirm that any such behaviour has no place online, in our stadium, our club, our community or our game."

The game was overshadowed by a horrific ankle injury suffered by Everton's Andre Gomes after a tackle by Son Heung-min.