Former Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun has survived a grenade attack at his home in Israel. The 44-year-old says he suspects it was a case of mistaken identity.
A person on a motorbike threw the weapon through the door of Benayoun’s home near Tel Aviv. There have been no reported serious injuries following the explosion which is said to have caused “minor damage”. A police investigation is underway.
“This is definitely a mistake – I have no doubt that the grenade was not aimed at my house,” Benayoun said. “At first, I thought it was a gas cylinder explosion, and we called the fire department. It was only when the police arrived at the house and found the remains of a grenade that we realized what really happened.”
The grenade incident happened on Sunday night, police in Israel said. A statement read: “The police hotline received a report of hearing an explosion outside a house.
“Police from the Glilot station arrived at the scene and began an investigation. As a result of the explosion, damage was caused. There were no casualties.”
Benayoun played for West Ham United for two years. He then moved to Liverpool, where he made 92 appearances for the Reds under Rafa Benitez between 2007 and 2010.
The former Israel national team captain followed former Anfield teammate Fernando Torres to Chelsea after leaving Anfield. There, he won the Europa League before spending time on loan at Arsenal and back at West Ham, before a spell with QPR.
Benayoun appeared at Anfield recently for the Legends game against Chelsea during the March international break. There, he explained to reporters including from Liverpool.com about how proud he was to represent the Reds.
“Like a lot of people, you have a dream to play for big clubs like Liverpool and I was lucky to do it,” he said. “But to play at the age of almost 45, to come back and play at Anfield in front of a full stadium, I think it’s a dream that you can not even dream. It’s amazing.
“Since we left, I think most of the players were in connection with the club; some events, some interviews that you are doing. I think it shows how big is this club compared to others that. Not all the clubs are keeping in touch with ex-players, so it’s amazing. This is why Liverpool is so special.”
