Season 2007-08 Diary
ToffeeWeb's comprehensive news archive
If it happened and it was Everton-related, it's right here in the
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News Headlines & FeaturesEGM Resolution Minority shareholders seek answers over Kirkby 29 Jun - A group of Everton Shareholders are seeking to secure an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Everton Football Club Co Ltd to discuss a number of issues relating to "Destination Kirkby". A statement and a highly compelling supporting document [3MB PDF] that contains the petition, and a detailed analysis of the key issues of concern regarding a new stadium for Everton outside the city boundary in the Metropolitan Borough of Knowsley are being posted to shareholders and should arrive by Tuesday. Dennehy goes to Cardiff Young Irish player out of contract 28 Jun - Another promising youngster from Everton's Youth Academy has been allowed to leave the club. Darren Dennehy, 19, an Irish Under-21 international defender who is 6-ft 3-in and has been with Everton since 2005, but is out of contract this month. Everton offered Dennehy a full professional contract but the young defender, who can also operate in midfield, feels he can make the breakthrough with Cardiff. Dennehy has accepted a three-year contract on better terms than the one-year deal offered by The Toffees. GONW ask for more time on Kirkby Prolonged uncertainty over transfers as well? 27 Jun - It appears as though a decision on whether or not the Government Office for the North West (GONW) should recommend that the Destination Kirkby initiative be called in for public inquiry could be delayed until mid-July. Originally expected 3rd July, GONW have apparently asked for more time to scrutinise the proposal due to the project's size. The fresh delay could have knock-on effects for David Moyes's spending plans which are believed to be tied to the outcome. Moyes: Johnson not for sale 27 Jun - David Moyes has issued a "hands-off" warning to potential suitors for Andy Johnson, insisting the striker is not for sale. Media reports in recent days have suggested that Sunderland and Wigan were preparing firm bids for the player Everton acquired for £8.6m two years ago. Tesco store INSIDE the stadium? Accountants can't be wrong... 26 Jun - This article from Accountancy Age last week contains a clear statement regarding Tesco's contribution to Everton's new stadium in Kirkby: "The club successfully gained a £120m contribution to the cost from the supermarket giant in return for allowing Tesco to build a 55,000sq ft in-stadium store." Surely some mistake... We won't put stadium above players 25 Jun - In a revealing interview with property magazine, Estate Gazette, Head of Communications, Ian Ross, says that looking after the team is the "primary concern" while admitting that the club and Tesco are hoping for help from the Labour Government to avoid the scheme getting called in for a public enquiry. Furthermore, the article also suggests that Knowsley Council are hopeful of attracting commercial investors if the stadium portion falls through and that Everton, in that event, will reconsider redeveloping Goodison Park. Double squeeze on transfer kitty Moyes frustrated... or minted? 22 Jun - While the distraction of the 2008 Euros continues to provide a handy excuse for the lack of transfer activity at Everton, Alan Nixon claims in The People that "Moyes thought he was going to have cash to spend this summer, but problems with Everton's ground move and financial issues with backers, means he will not have as much as he wanted." In the NOTW, Chris Bascombe puts it more bluntly: "Everton are awaiting for a decision on their new stadium before letting Moyes spend any cash." Meanwhile, the Sunday Express and The Times suggest he's about to sign a £12m contract and start spending a £25m transfer kitty. Cavalcade to Protest Destination Kirkby 20 Jun - The 1st4Kirkby group are organising a motor cavalcade through Kirkby tomorrow to protest Destination Kirkby and demonstrate the potential traffic chaos that the mixed retail and stadium development could cause the town centre. It starts at 2pm Saturday at Kirkby Sports Centre; more details in this flyer [PDF]. Uefa Cup means date changes Two fixtures for starters 17 Jun - Everton's game at Hull City and the home game against Newcastle United are both set to be moved back a day to Sunday (21 September and 5 October, respectively) to accommodate Everton's Uefa Cup First Round matches on the preceding Thursdays. First Up: Blackburn (H) 2008-09 FIxtures announced 16 Jun - Everton will start the 2008-09 season at Goodison Park against Blackburn Rovers on 16 August. The first three aways are against the promoted trio, then it gets a bit tougher, starting with the Goodison derby on 27 September. Last game of the season is at Craven Cottage on 24 May. First new signing announced! 15 Jun - Dressed appropriately in the new kit, Everton's first new signing of the summer has finally arrived. Set to bulk up the midfield, can run all day and, passes better than Hibbert. Unfortunately, lacks vision and is over fond of the odd gambol. However, a useful acquisition... it's Super St Domingo , the Blue Lambanana... [Thanks to Ray Robinson] Slaven is just the bill Croatia upset the Euro stars 14 Jun - Definitely not one of the most-loved former Everton players, Slaven Bilic is doing something right in his current role as manager of Croatia. Two wins over England in qualifying for Euro 2008 put paid to national hopes of glory in Austria-Switzerland, and wins over co-hosts Austria and now Germany have put the Croatians in pole position in Group B, heading for the quarter-finals. A big NO to Bellefield development Planning permission refused 11 Jun - Everton's plan to redevelop Bellefield with the construction of 74 large family homes on their former training ground in West Derby was thrown out by Liverpool councillors yesterday. Concerted opposition from 220 local residents appears to have been successful in persuading the planning committee to finally reject the application. Money from the sale would have gone towards funding Destination Kirkby and Everton claim LCC's actions are politically motivated. KMBC approve Destination Kirkby Project's fate in hands of Government 9 Jun - As expected, Knowsley Council have given their backing to the joint Tesco-Everton retail and stadium development proposed for Kirkby and granted planning permission for the project. The proposal now moves to the Government Office North West where a decision will be made whether or not to recommend that Secretary of State for Communities, Hazel Blears, call the project in based on objections from neighbouring councils. Howard the star USA 0 - 0 Argentina 8 Jun - Tim Howard put in a great perfomance to keep a clean sheet for the United States of America, who took on the might of Argentina. After the game in front of an incredible 78,682 crowd in Giants Stadium on Sunday, Howard said "Tonight we stood up and made ourselves accountable, we didn't back down. We stuck our heads and our feet in every challenge. That's what we are going to need to go forward for us to be successful." Redeveloping Goodison What might have been 7 Jun - This is a bit old and dated (2000) but many people are wondering why Goodison cannot be redeveloped economically and attract "good" commercial partners. As can be seen from the Ward McHugh report, Goodison Park can be developed into a 55,000-seater stadium. The estimated cost back then was around £40 million (more like £80M now) and it could have paid for itself by the time the Kirkby stadium is built. [Jay Harris] Sharing: Shall we talk or Not? Bartlett gets it wrong yet again 6 Jun - Blurting out the ridiculous headline in the Daily Post: "Anfield US owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett in shared stadium talks", the paper's Nick Bartlett was made to look even more ridiculous when their sister paper, the Liverpool Echo blazoned a totally contrary story under the banner: "Tom Hicks slams talk of stadium share "... When will this nonsense end? Monday is D-Day for Kirkby Recommendation and Conclusions 4 Jun - A major vote on Tesco's and Everton’s plans to redevelop Kirkby town centre and a build a new stadium will be made by Knowsley councillors on Monday 9 June. This link [PDF] is to the 44-page Recommendation and Conclusions section of the council Planning Committee's 412-page report that recommends approval of the controversial £400M stadium and shopping centre. It sounds like it will be a formality, as the planning committee are giving the scheme its full backing but neighbouring councils (LCC, Sefton) are voting today on whether they will lodge offical objections... and the project may still be called in by central government. [Brian Baker, with thanks to John Quinn for providing the link] Ruleteros Champions of Chile! Corporación Deportiva Everton 3 - 0 Colo Colo 3 Jun - CD Everton overcame a 2-0 deficit from the first leg of their Apertura Championship play-off final against five-time reigning champions Colo Colo to complete a stunning comeback and secure the title going into the Ruleteros' centenary year. All the goals came after the break in front of 15,000 fans in the Sausalito Stadium, Viña del Mar, giving Everton their first title win in 32 years. Fantastic! Moyes wins Rooney libel case Damages go to EFPF 3 Jun - David Moyes accepted "substantial" libel damages at the High Court today over an allegation in Wayne Rooney's autobiography which accused him of a "serious breach of trust towards a young player under his management" by leaking the contents of a private and confidential conversation, during which the star stated his intention to leave Everton, to a local newspaper. In a very noble gesture, Moyes will give the proceeds to the Everton Former Players Foundation. Yobo leads Eagles to victory Nigeria 2 - 0 South Africa 1 Jun - Joseph Yobo led Nigeria to a comfortable 2-0 win over South Africa in a World Cup / Afcon qualifier played in Abuja today. The Super Eagles team included Ayegbeni Yakubu, who was substituted in the second half by Victor Anichebe. On the other side, Steven Pienaar was declared fit enough to play for Bafana Bafana but was substituted 10 mins before before the end. Mr Ossie's Rolled Gold BBC Radio 7 09:15 Sun 1 Jun 1 Jun - Mr Ossie's Rolled-Gold Fish and Chip Shop: Vincent McInerney's story of a boy desperate to see an Everton game. Can a fish and chip shop owner help? This short story will be broadcast on BBC Radio 7 today (Sunday) at 9:15am, read by Richard Tate, and available online via Listen Again for the next 7 days. [Link supplied by Joe Banerjee] LCC's critique of Destination Kirkby Only addresses retail issues 30 May - A Retail Planning Critique of the Planning Application for a proposed Mixed Use Development on Cheeryfield Drive, Kirkby, including relocation of Everton FC and provision of new retail floorspace, has been prepared on behalf of Liverpool City Council by Cushman & Wakefield LLP of London, published yesterday. Here is a link to the Full Report — a 5MB download in portable document format. It's focus is mainly on the retail issues and their controversially large scope and less to say about the new Everton stadium — except to question why the retail development is dependent on the stadium. Uphill battle for Ruleteros Colo Colo 2 - 0 CD Everton 28 May - Before a 35,000 crowd in the Monumental Stadium, Santiago, Chile, CD Everton conceded two late goals against Colo Colo in the first leg of the play-offs final. Until the hour mark CD Everton had competed well but a rush of blood saw full back Arias raise his hand to earn a second yellow and an early bath. It was then backs to the wall with the Ruleteros holding out until the 85th and 91st minutes when the home pressure finally paid off. CD Everton have already come back from 0-3 during the play-offs — this latest mountain, however, might prove a little too steep to climb. [John Shearon] Howard relishes Wembley encounter England v USA 28 May - With Everton players on both sides, USA goalkeeper Tim Howard has been talking about today's international friendly when the Yanks will line up against England at Wembley. Phil Jagielka has been called up for the home side but is not expected to make his England debut tonight. Talk of a Takeover bid Russian oligarch... but which one? 26 May - The Rumour Mill has taken a break (albeit brief!) from the incessant linking of prospective future transfers on David Moyes's top 24 list to highlight a very juicy prospect doing the rounds among the Everton cogniscenti; talk of a takeover deal that has been going on for at least a couple of weeks has now surfaced beyond the level of pub gossip, earning plenty of buzz on message boards and a passing mention on the Daily Post's own rumours page. Would Blue Bill really sell up? What do you think about being taken over by the Russians and was our old friend Chris Samuelson again the grease in the wheels? Arteta on the mend Recovering after stomach surgery 25 May - Mikel Arteta had surgery in Barcleona to address the stomach/groin problem that seriously affected his performances for the team since well before Christmas. Playing though the pain (without endangering the player) is part and parcel of professional football, says Mike Rathbone, who is optimistic that the surgery will solve this nggling injury problem. Everton (Chile) head for the Final 24 May - CD Everton have just qualified for the final, drawing the second leg of the semi 1-1 with Universidad de Chile before 15,000 in the Sausalito (4-2 on aggregate). They play Colo Colo away on Wednesday with the return in Viña del Mar next Saturday, looking to take their first Chilean league title since 1976. [John Shearon] Vaughan on the path to recovery Knee needs plenty of rehab 23 May - James Vaughan is hopeful of being fit for the start of the season after suffering cartilage damage during training in March and being operated on later that month by Colorado knee specialist Dr Richard Steadman. Vaughan has stayed behind at Finch Farm to do rehab work on his knee and he is on track to be a part of pre-season training. Announcement... What Announcement? Mailbag Opinion 20 May - So what happened to the big announcement? If David Moyes has agreed "in principle" to a 4-year contract, and as such will now embark on spending whatever funds the Everton Board of Directors have provided, why is it that the Club will wait until later in the summer to officially announce it? Maybe there are more details to iron out before he actually signs? David Whitwell wants to know... Carsley joins Birmingham City Veteran midfielder departs 19 May - Lee Carsley's long and productive Everton career is over after he elected not to renew his contract at Goodison and signed today for Birmingham City. When the veteran midfielder was signed by Walter Smith, it was seen as something of a retrograde step — the Irishman had been relegated with three prior clubs! — but he flourished under David Moyes, becoming one of the most important players and an unsung hero of recent seasons. The 34 year-old joins the Midlanders' quest for an immediate return to the top flight. Anichebe bound for Beijing Striker set to miss start of next season 18 May - Nigeria will incur the further wrath of David Moyes after they confirmed that Victor Anichebe will be included in their squad for the Olympics, thereby ensuring the 20 year-old will miss the start of next season. Joseph Yobo was to be one of the Super Eagles' three over-23 players but the Nigerian FA's secretary forgot to include his name in the squad submitted to the IOC. Cahill's recovery “On Track” Should be fit for next season 16 May - Tim Cahiill has told the Everton official website that his recovery is on schedule and going well after he had yet more surgery a few weeks ago in an attempt to finally put an end to the problems he has had with repeated breakages of the metatarsal in his foot. He said he would stay out for a season if that's what was needed to put it right; however, he thinks he only has six years of football left, and as we know, he wants to spend those years playing for Everton! Surgery for Baines Time to solve ankle problem 14 May - The season has been one injury horror after another for prized left-back Leighton Baines, who has now had surgery to resolve an ankle problem sustained back in October. Baines also tore his hamstring in the 3-0 win over Fulham, after having arrived as a £6M purchase with a groin injury! His record with Wigan was far better, so let's hope we will see him claim that left-back slot for his own next season. Surplus to requirements Nine young players to leave 14 May - Icleandic international Bjarni Thor Vidarsson and defender Patrick Boyle are among nine young Everton players being released. The others are: goalkeeper Jamie Jones; defender Shaun Densmore, midfielders Steven Morrison, James Hall and Ryan Harpur and forwards Aidan Downes and Stephen Connor. Moyes coy about crunch talks The likely range needed is £20M to £40M 12 May - Talking with David Prentice in the Liverpool Echo, David Moyes deflected concerns about the level of investment in new players Bill Kenwright will provide to fund the manager's revised 4-year plan, that is thought to require between £20M and £40M: "We'll probably get together some time at the end of next week. No date has been set. It will probably be Thursday or Friday, but I'm totally relaxed about it." Yakubu delivers the goods Everton 3 - 1 Newcastle United 11 May - After a poor initial display from the Blues it all changed on the half-hour with a good delivery in from Fernandes that was turned in brilliantly with a great diving header by Yakubu — his 20th goal of the season! But Everton were sleeping after their warm half-time cuppa, Yobo forced to bring N'Zogbia down and Owen converted from the spot. Nervy times with news of Villa winning at West Ham, relieved only when Joleon Lescott stepped up at the far post to shoot home off another great Fernandes free-kick. Then a miracle: Penalty for Everton! Converted superbly by The Yak!!! A great finish for the season. Everton v Newcastle United Match Preview & Statistical Record 11 May - One final push for a point could secure 5th place... and even a loss might be just fine for once — as long as Aston Villa don't beat West Ham United. It's the end of the season and all games kick off at the same time, which means limited live TV coverage for the Blues. Commentary is available as always from EvertonTV.com — provided you have paid your subscription! Last run out for Cars? No decision until after his hols 10 May - Ian Doyle of the Daily Post talks with Lee Carsely, who may be pulling on the Royal Blue Everton jersey for the last time tomorrow if he decides that he has a better bet playing out his career elsewhere. When Carsley signed seven years ago, he was a bit of a Jonah, having been relegated with his three previous teams! But many times in that period he has proved to be the solid core of Moyes's often limited midfield. Is it time to make way for new blood...??? No progress on Moyes's contract ... or his wish list! 10 May - "My job is here and I am under contract for another year. I will be here next season unless I am told differently but beyond that I don't know. It may seem strange to be preparing for another season with just one year on your contract but maybe that is a question for the chairman. We had some discussions two months ago but there has been nothing since. I haven't actually been offered a new contract and nothing has been mentioned about holding more talks." Moyes won't accept lock on Sky 4 Moyes confirms 4th was on the cards 9 May - "I can't turn up at the start of next season believing we can't be up there [in the top four]. Even this season, until the beginning of March, we had a realistic chance. And if we could have got there it could have changed Everton for a long, long time. We're probably more ready now than we were three years ago, and if we'd got in I think we could have made the group stages. With the money that's on offer we could have changed things..." Joleon is the tops Player of the Season 8 May - Joleon Lescott was voted the Player of the Season by fans and also by his fellow players at Everton's lavish awards dinner in St George's Hall, Liverpool, last night. The 25-year-old has performed superbly in 53 games for Everton this season and notched an impressive nine goals, mostly from his position as makeshift left-back. Kirkby plans to be resubmitted Shrinking retail element 7 May - Tesco will resubmit plans for Destination Kirkby that will respond to a number of complaints about the project, including a sizeable cut in the amount of retail space that was needed to "cross-fund" the new stadium for Everton. Lots of positive and negative spin from proponents and opponents as to what this means for the future of the project. Discuss it here in our Mailbag. Hibbo: Defensive dervish Moyes on keeping it tight 6 May - David Moyes has been talking up Tony Hibbert after the much-maligned full-back put in a good day's graft at The Emirates against Arsenal, and kept Theo Walcott well bottled up. Interesting that Moyes sees him primariliy as a defender for the bigger games (ie, against the Sky 4) — but chooses to rest him and play Neville at right back when a slightly more expansive gameplan is warranted. Discuss this in our Mailbag Lack of ambition prolongs uncertainty Arsenal 1 - 0 Everton 4 May - Everton go into the final game still not sure of 5th place as an under-strength and under-motivated Arsenal grabbed the goal they needed to record yet another win over the Blues. Johnson led the line with Yakubu on the bench but it was Jagielka with the best chance of a pedestrian first half that at least saw Everton playing it on the deck, his header cleared off the line. Arsenal were there for the taking but Moyes seemed content to play out the draw, so Wenger put Traore on and he soon created a simple winning goal for Bendtner. Moyes belatedly responded with Yakubu and Anichebe for the last 10 mins but it was all so disappointingly predictable. Arsenal vs Everton Match Preview & Statistical Record 4 May - Everton travel to The Emirates today knowing that one point guarantees Uefa Cup football next season and the unofficial title of "best of the rest" for David Moyes's men. Mikel Arteta is out but Andy Johnson and Steven Pienaar faced late tests before the 1:30pm kick off, and were deemed fit enough to play. Yakubu is dropped to the bench to allow Carsley and Neville to play in midfield, with Hibbert back in the team. Dixie Dean Radio Feature Listen again to Radio Five Live 3 May - Eamonn Holmes on Five Live featured an interview this morning with filmmaker, Ian Lysaght, the director of a feature-length docu-drama being made by Tabacula, 80 years on from the hat-trick Dean scored for Everton against Arsenal that sealed his unequalled 60-goal season. Scroll forward in the 2-hour porgramme to the 1:31:00 timepoint to listen again, the highlight being the recollections of Harry McLeish, who was there, age 7, at Goodison Park. Arteta succumbs to injury Spaniard ruled out of last two games 2 May - Everton have finally decided that someting different needs to be done about the niggling stomach and groin injury that has plagued Mikel Arteta since last October. But they are still insisting that he does not need surgery to fix the problem — just rest. He will not play against Arsenal or Newcastle as injuries continue to bite into the team's final run-in. Everton hover outside the Top 20 Club valued at ~£100M 1 May - Forbes magazine has published its annual Rich List of Soccer Club valuations as of May 2007, with Everton hovering just outside the top 20 at a total value of just under £100M ($197M). Debt Value, at 30% of the total valuation(?) would seem to be understated, with current indications that it is closer to 50% of the £100M club valuation. Sefton Council lodges Kirkby objection 29 Apr - Neighbouring Sefton Council has joined the opposition to the joint Tesco-Everton "Destination Kirkby" initiative on the grounds that the scale of the development is disproportionate to Kirkby's size and role and status in the area. In an official objection, the Council says, "we would be especially concerned about the impacts on Bootle and Southport which are shown to be included in the Kirkby Catchment Area." Blues surrender precious advantage Everton 2 - 2 Aston Villa 27 Apr - In what eventually became a pulsating encounter, Everton allowed Villa back in in the last 10 minutes to prolong an increasingly nervy push for 5th place. Ashley Young smashed a direct free kick off the crossbar in a dour first half but, after Stilian Petrov got away with handling Lee Carsley's drive in the box, Phil Neville's deflected shot gave Everton the lead on 55 minutes. Lapse marking allowed Gabriel Agbonlahor to turn in an 80th-minute corner but Joseph Yobo popped up with a striker's finish to sweep home Lee Carsley's sweet cross three minutes later. Everton couldn't close it out, though, allowing Gareth Barry too much time to serve it up for John Carew to head home. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Everton vs Aston Villa Match Preview 26 Apr - It's crunch time for Everton in their penultimate home game of the season as Aston Villa, now their closest rivals for 5th place, come to town with just three points separating the two sides. Mikel Arteta and Leon Osman are expected to return as David Moyes goes in search of only a second win in seven. Victory for the Blues would eliminate Portsmouth from contention after their defeat to Blackburn earlier today. KO is 4pm with live coverage on Sky Sports 1. Arteta back for Villa showdown? Star returns from Spanish break 23 Apr - Everton expected Mikel Arteta back from another rehabilitative break in Spain on Friday. Arteta has been struggling with groin and stomach problems. However, the signs are that he may be in contention for a return to the team and he should be fit to start in what could be a make-or-break game for the Blues against Aston Villa on Sunday. Update: Arteta has asked to spend another day in Spain (with his girlfriend?) for "more treatment". David Moyes is "frustrated". Steven Pienaar will join Everton Permanent deal secured 22 Apr - After a rather long and worrying "48 hours" that lasted more like a week, Steven Pienaar has finally been secured on a permament contract with Everton. This completes his loan move from Borussia Dortmund, who accepted an incredible £2.05M for the midget gem. The contract runs through 2011 and sees yet another important piece of team-building for the future under David Moyes who's also reportedly been on a scouting mission to Moscow to watch Arshavin and Dudu in action this week. The Dixie Dean Story Watch the play 21 Apr - 5 May 2008 will mark William Ralph Dean's 80th anniversary of scoring 60 league goals for Everton in one season. Arts2u and John Keith have collaborated to stage a tribute production to a man heralded as Merseyside's greatest hero. Venue - Crosby Civic Theatre Premiere Night 5th May at 7.30pm £10 Afternoon Performance 6th May at 12.30pm £7.50 Evening Performance 6th May at 7.30pm £10 “Another five or six years” ... Moyes says it again! 19 Apr - "It will take us another five or six years to be up there with a chance of breaking into the top four... We have good foundations here, a good structure. The club is on a firm footing with the playing staff we have. We need to build on that the way we have been doing and then the success will come. And if they want me to be here for five or six more years, that will be OK. What I need to see is that they have the same ambitions as me, and that we are going along together to try to get Everton back to the dizzy heights of a few years ago." Nice to see he has moved on from Everton being perennially releagation-threatened to acknowledging that they used to be a top team. Moyes senses the danger Villa closing in... 18 Apr - Although he makes the typical excuses for failing to challenge Chelsea yet again, it does sound as if Moyes is aware that the season could now just peter out: “We have to make sure we keep going because we have teams behind us pushing us hard. The target is to qualify for the UEFA Cup. We had European football this year and we enjoyed it and we want to try and make sure we achieve that again.” Let's hope that galvanises his team selection, training, and player motivation for the last three games... Essien sinks Everton Everton 0 - 1 Chelsea 17 Apr - Everton tried to play some football on occasions in the first half but the lesson on swift passing came from Chelsea 5 mins before the break when they waltzed through the stalwart Everton defence for Essien to chip the ball calmly over Tim Howard to take the lead. Everton huffed and puffed as required during the second half but never came close to worrying Cech and the game fizzled out to its inevitable conclusion. Match Report: Depressingly inevitable Everton vs Chelsea Team News 17 Apr - Everton welcome Chelsea to Goodison Park for the second time this season for an unusual Thursday night kick off. Mikel Arteta and Leon Osman miss out as expected and David Moyes makes just one change from last weekend: Joseph Yobo starts, Joleon Lescott moves to left back and Leighton Baines drops to the bench. Everton v Chelsea Match Preview 17 Apr - Everton welcome Chelsea to Goodison Park for the second time this season, and another night match. But a Thursday is unusual, and Sky is getting the blame from disgruntled fans and club officials. Everton are still depleted by injuries, with rumours abounding that David Moyes could drop the out-of-form Yakubu and revert to his tried and trusted 4-5-1 formation. Big Game Tomorrow? Not really, says Moyes... 16 Apr - Pre-match perceptions are strange things... with many believing Thursday night is a must-win for both Chelsea and Everton. But David Moyes believes Chelsea's title chances vanished in Monday's draw with Wigan, and he has accepted that Everton cannot now secure 4th: "So in lots of ways the importance of the game has gone really for both clubs." Uh!!! What he didn't say was: "Play it tight, defend deep, hoof the ball forward, and look to snatch one off a set-piece." But I think we know what's coming... Moyes warned about conduct 15 Apr - Although one of the charges aganst him in relation to the acrimonious Goodison derby game back in October was eventually dropped by the FA, Moyes was censured at a hearing in London yesterday regarding his public comments about referee Mark Clattenburg's bias or incomptence. Mr Bean hits a brick wall FA Referees close ranks 13 Apr - Graham Bean of Football Factors, who is working on behalf of Everton boss David Moyes, has been refused permission to see the marks awarded to ref Mark Clattenburg for last October's Everton-Liverpool game that led to Moyes facing a disrepute charge. Bean believes the assessor's marks show Clattenburg's display was sub-standard. But the Professional Game and Match Officials (PGMO) have recently decided not to release any more assessor reports. Everton have to settle for a point Birmingham City 1 - 1 Everton 12 Apr - Everton shaded the first half, weathered a brief storm by Birmingham in the second when Tim Howard made a superb double-stop to deny Jaidi and James McFadden and then took the lead with 12 minutes left when Lescott headed home in a penalty-area melee. The lead was short-lived, though; Lee Carsley was adjudged to have handled outside the box and Zerate curled home the free kick to deny the Blues a precious win. Birmingham City vs Everton Match Preview 11 Apr - Everton look to consolidate 5th place and put pressure on Liverpool in 4th as they go in search of victory at Birmingham tomorrow. Arteta, Osman, Pienaar and Hibbert are all doubts as Moyes's selection headaches continue. KO is 3pm. Pienaar signing is a done deal Moyes confirms Agent is the problem 11 Apr - By way of reassurance to paranoid Evertonians, David Moyes has spoken up regarding his knowledge of a permanent deal having been finalised for Steven Pienaar: "As far as I know Steven Pienaar's contract is agreed, it's all done. I think it's his agent's money that isn't agreed. As far as I know everything has been done for a while, so I think it is to do with money for the agent."... which gives some weight to the rumours flying around and explains why the Good Friday signing did not happen as predicted. Fresh injury concerns for Arteta Spaniard a doubt for Saturday 10 Apr - A recurrence of two niggling injuries that have severely disrupted the second half of his season means that Mikel Arteta is rated as a major doubt for Saturday's trip to Birmingham City. The Spaniard hasn't trained all week after his groin and abdominal muscle complaints flared up again. He joins Steven Pienaar (leg) and Tony Hibbert (hip) on the treatment table. Clock is ticking on Pienaar deal Not long left to get Peanuts for peanuts 8 Apr - Steven Pienaar says that he is "in the dark" over his Everton future as the expiration nears on the clause in his Borussia Dortmund contract that would allow him to leave for a cut-price £2.2m. Although he is contracted to the Bundesliga side until June, the cap on his transfer fee is only valid until 30th April. He has until then to secure a dream move to the Premier League — be it to Everton, his preferred destination and thus far the only club with an agreement with Dortmund, or other rumoured suitors — before his value jumps to perhaps prohibitive levels. Manny needs to impress Moyes A chance to prove his worth 7 Apr - David Moyes has encouraged Manuel Fernandes to prove he’s worth a permanent contract: "He’s not done as much as we’d hoped so far. But he might get his opportunity in the coming weeks to see if he can do that. He has everything in his locker to become a top midfielder. I think he's a talented player and I thought bits of him recently have been very good. He came on in the derby last week and actually passed the ball very well." Osman fires Everton's only bullet Everton 1 - 0 Derby County 6 Apr - You know it can't have been pretty when the Daily Post describes it as "Dire"... Johnson, fit, started alongside Yakubu but the team looked dreadful in the first half, Yakubu skying a glorious sitter. The second half did not look much better until a good move down the left saw Fernandes deliver a superb final ball that Leon Osman had no trouble with, drilling the ball home delightfully. Open the floodgates! Yea, right... Everton sat on their lead and almost invited relegated Derby to have a pop before celebrating three points that keeps them clinging to Liverpol's shirt-tails. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Everton vs Derby County Match Preview 5 Apr - No wins, just six goals away from Pride Park all season long and a goal difference of -51 tells its own story — Derby should be cannon-fodder for a team that still harbours aspirations of a top-four finish. But nothing can be taken for granted, even against a team whose relegation is now guaranteed. KO is 3pm tomorrow. Moyes: “We don't need more players... ... just more players with quality” 4 Apr - "I am happy with the numbers here, just that one or two have not worked or offered enough to the squad, that has affected things. We have always been looking to add to the numbers, but mainly to the quality." David Moyes, elaborating on the current view of his squad, that has been down to its bare bones mainly through injuries these last few games... but not for lack of numbers? So will Moyes ever have a large squad? Go figure... AJ and Vic to return against Derby? 3 Apr - Andy Johnson will be given every chance to prove his fitness for the visit of newly-relegated Derby County. The striker has been sidelined since limping out of the action at Fulham three games ago and is touch-and-go to be fit in time for this weekend. Victor Anichebe, meanwhile, is on target to be available to play some part after recovering from a stomach bug. Big Vic recovers from stomach bug He did not eat for four days 2 Apr - Victor Anichebe was laid low by a stomach virus after appearing for Nigeria U-23s last week. He was hospitalised on a drip overnight, and went without eating for four days, He's now struggling to regain his strength for the weekend, when he might be called upon to bolster the injury-striken Everton attack for the game against Derby County. Derby fallout continues off-field Ross asks for fans' rethink 1 Apr - Much of the stuff written about last Sunday's derby in the papers and on the internet wires has focussed on off-field nonsense about mindless chants and stupid attacks by idiot fans... and so it goes on, with Ian Ross now calling for a return to "the friendly derby" of years gone by, while neatly rebuffing Benitez's one-sided assessment of Sunday's more dispicable antics. Roll on the weekend, when we can hopefully get back to the football... One is enough against blunted Blues Liverpool 1 - 0 Everton 30 Mar - An early goal by Fernando Torres was enough to hand Liverpool victory in this crucial derby, the Spanish striker capitalising on Yakubu's error to fire home after 6 minutes. Steven Gerrard hit the post as the Reds dominated the first half but Everton controlled the second without ever looking capable of scoring. With Johnson, Anichebe and Vaughan all missing, the Yak cut a frustrated figure as the lone striker until Osman and then Jagielka were pushed up in support but the Blues had just Arteta's first-minute drive and an Osman header to show for their attacking efforts over the 90 minutes. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Liverpool vs Everton Match Preview 29 Mar - This Sunday's clash of Blue and red at Anfield needs no introduction as Everton go in search of the three points that would see them leapfrog neighbours Liverpool back into fourth place. Cahill and Vaughan are ruled out but Pienaar is fit and Johnson and Yobo will undergo late fitness tests. KO is 4pm in front of the eyes of the world. COYB! Cahill out for the season His foot is broken again 28 Mar - After almost a week, Everton have finally admitted that Tim Cahill has broken his foot again and will now miss the rest of the season. This must be a huge blow for everyone concerned, confirming fears that he was pushed back into action by the Aussies too soon after the original injury. When it flared up again, special boots with a more supportive sole and shorter studs were meant to provide greater protection. There must be a serious question mark now over what it will take to get Timmy fully fit again. Dr Everton's magnificent obsession David France makes the nationals 27 Mar - In The Telegraph, Robert Philip pays a great honour to a great Evertonian, highlighting some of the unique spirit that underlies his fantastic horde of Everton programmes, collected over many years by Dr David France, Ph D. This now forms the heart of The Everton Collection at Liverpool Record Office, its future secured last year with a £54,000 grant from the National Lottery. Working with what you've got ... and scouting out the lower leagues 26 Mar - In this interview at the League Managers website, David Moyes underlines some of his key philosophies as a manager, including not always looking for money for new players: "If you want to be a manager or a coach then you have got to prove that you can work with what is available to you." The questions also highlight his focus on scouting younger players from the lower leagues, and maintaining a British core to the Everton team. Cahill's season could be over More metatarsal problems for Australian? 25 Mar - Update: Everton fear that Tim Cahill's season could be over following a recurrence of the metatarsal problems that started around the same time last year and prematurely ended his 2006/07 campaign. The midfielder has been left out of the Australia squad for Wednesday’s World Cup qualifier with China after limping off in the 10th minute of Sunday’s disappointing 1-1 draw with West Ham. The club's medical staff are continuing their tests and have not yet ascertained the full extent of his injuries, but The Guardian report that they're preparing for bad news. Dixie: The People's Legend Docu-drama close to fruition 24 Mar - Tabacula, a local production company who have been laying the foundations for a documentary about the life of Everton's legend, William Ralph "Dixie" Dean, hope to embark on a year of work on the film after working hard behind the scenes getting all of the legalities in place. They're hoping to build interest with a trailer currently in production; more importantly, they're looking for willing investors. Download the investors' PDF, visit the website and follow the project's progress at the new Tabacula blog. Also, the great man's legacy will be celebrated at the Everton FC Shareholders Dinner on 5th April, a month before the 80th anniversary of his scoring that 60th goal. Faltering Blues Drop Two More Points Everton 1 - 1 West Ham United 22 Mar - Everton escaped with a point from another must-win encounter as injury concerns and the pressure of the season run-in appear to be taking their toll. Yakubu got them off to a brilliant start on 8 mins with a thumping finish but after a perfectly good goal by the Nigerian was erroneously disallowed, the Blues' performance fell away and they resorted to poor passing and endless hoofball. No real surprise then when Tim Howard could only palm Dean Ashton's header in off the post and a couple of defensive howlers almost let in Freddie Spears for the winner, the young striker forcing two saves from Howard before rolling the ball off the post at the death. Match report Everton vs West Ham United Match Preview 22 Mar - While Liverpool must travel to Old Trafford, Everton entertain West Ham, the team they've already beaten twice this season and who've lost their last two away games 4-0. Victor Anichebe should be fit but Andy Johnson, a bigger doubt, will undergo a late test on his groin. This one is the late afternoon televised game so kick off is 5:15pm. Respect is a two-way street Moyes speaks out... 21 Mar - As the need for players to respect referees hits the headlines, David Moyes addresses a clear double-standard: "Clubs have made decisions (to appeal red cards] and been confronted with being told they are frivolous. Almost being told, 'sorry, we do not respect you so don't bother coming to us and asking'. There are many times we have asked for decisions, and me personally, for the referee to maybe turn around and say he has got something wrong and made a mistake. But they won't do that." Reserves draw at Sunderland Sunderland Res 0 - 0 Everton Res 20 Mar - With a line-up in which only defender Jack Rodwell had even had a sniff of Premier League football, Everton Reserves earned a hard-earned point in a goalless draw at Sunderland last night, despite having defender Darren Dennehy sent off with 10 minutes left. Striker Kieran Agard played the full game, but young protege Jose Baxter was on duty for England U-16s for whom he scored in a 3-1 win over Japan. Wyness slams Bafana madness Two-years with no club football!?! 19 Mar - The South African Sports Minister, Makhenkesi Stofile, believes South Africa's top 50 players should be contracted to the government for two years before the 2010 World Cup, so they can prepare fully for the tournament. "We have to prevent them from embarrassing us."... Keith Wyness has reacted strongly to the ridiculous idea that Everton would lose the services of Steven Pienaar for two years: "It is entirely unworkable and shows a complete lack of understanding for how the football world works," Pienaar deal expected by Friday Permanent contract a must for midfielder 18 Mar - Everton are confident that a deal to make Steven Pienaar’s stay on Merseyside permanent will be completed by the end of the week. Goodison Park officials are at an advanced stage of negotiations with Pienaar’s advisors. A fee has already been agreed with Borussia Dortmund and Pienaar has let it be known that he is settled on Merseyside, while David Moyes does not want to allow the gem he has unearthed slip away. Injury pile-up threatens Blues' charge Johnson to undergo scan 17 Mar - Andy Johnson will undergo a scan early this week to determine the severity of the groin strain that forced him off after just 15 minutes of yesterday's defeat at Fulham. With Victor Anichebe joining Tim Cahill, Manuel Fernandes, Andy van der Meyde and James Vaughan on the treatment table before the game, David Moyes had no choice but to push Joleon Lescott up front to chase the game against the Cottagers. Hungover Everton floored by Fulham Fulham 1 - 0 Everton 16 Mar - From one of the season highs in terms of performance to a dreadful low as Everton suffered from a European hangover at Craven Cottage. The Blues edged a competitive but excitement-free first half but lacked ideas or purpose in the final third against a Fulham side there for the taking. The game was up when Brian McBride headed home their first effort on target and Moyes's side limply chased the game with Lescott up front with Yakubu following Johnson's early knock. A hoodoo's not a hoodoo if you don't help yourself... Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Fulham vs Everton Match Preview & Statistical Record 16 Mar - Everton haven't won at Fulham since the days Alan Ball was blazing down the wing in the Royal Blue jersey but there will be few better opportunities for an in-form Everton to consigned that abysmal run to history. Few changes are expected from the Fiorentina heartbreaker with Tim Cahill still out injured. KO is 1:30pm with live coverage on Sky. Building a young vibrant squad But it could take 5 more years... 15 Mar - "The first six years have gone quite well but it might be another five years before we can actually draw level with the teams at the top. I have had to come through a couple of rocky periods but this is the best I have felt about the team and the club. There is definite progress and I can bring people here and show them we are trying to build a young squad. I want us to be young and vibrant, not a home for old players at the end of their careers." — David Moyes, six years at Everton. Walton Hall Park plan snubbed Blocked by Exclusivity Deal 13 Mar - The Keep Everton in Our City campaign have unearthed news of another prospective inner-city stadium site that was blocked by the Exclusivity Agreement between Tesco and Everton. Plans for a stadium at Walton Hall Park, backed by Sainsbury's, were presented to LCC last August, at the time of the stadium vote. LCC forced the proposal to remain confidential, and Bill Kenwright blocked further discussion with proponent John Seddon in the interests of the Tesco deal. Spot kick agony for Everton Everton 2 - 0p Fiorentina aet 12 Mar - A heroic fight-back by Everton ended in heartbreak from the spot as they were eliminated from the Uefa Cup following a penalty shoot-out. David Moyes sent his charges out to attack with a 4-4-2 formation and was rewarded when Andy Johnson got the early goal the Blues were looking for. Mikel Arteta drilled home to level the tie on aggregate midway through the second half but Fiorentina escaped into extra time thanks largely to their goalkeeper and some narrow misses but there were no further goals. Dreaded penalties ensued where misses by Yakubu and Jagielka sent La Viola through but the Blues can hold their heads high after a valiant effort. Everton vs Fiorentina Match Preview 12 Mar - Everton gear up for Mission: Possible on Wednesday evening as Fiorentina come to Goodison with a commanding 2-0 lead from the first leg in theis Round of 16 Uefa Cup tie. Injuries to Fernandes, Osman, Valente and Vaughan mean that Moyes's team will probably pick itself, meaning an attack-minded 4-4-2. KO is 7:45pm with live TV coverage on ITV4 and select global stations. Update: Steve Flanagan's stats Lescott agrees new deal Four-year contract extension 11 Mar - Everton have secured the future of one of their most important assets with the news that Joleon Lescott has put pen to paper on a new deal that extends his Everton contract until 2012. The former Wolves man has already won England honours in his time with the Blues and is an indispensable member of David Moyes's high-flying team. Another runout for Gardner Everton Res 1 - 2 Wigan Athletic 10 Mar - Anthony Gardner got another runout for Everton Reserves who lost after going ahead against Wigan despite a stunning goal from Kieran Agard. Unfortunately goalkeeper Iain Turner was forced to withdraw after 35 minutes when he appeared to injure his leg. AJ makes a back for the Blues Sunderland 0 - 1 Everton 9 Mar - In a poor if hard-fought game at a rather intimidating Stadium of Light, Everton weathered the storm of revenge whipped up by Roy Keane's charges and stole a cheeky goal off Andy Johnson's back, shoulder or arm to claim all the points and stay on course in the battle for fourth place. It was not inspiring stuff, but the result was everything with one eye on the second leg against Fiorentina coming up in just three days... Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Sunderland vs Everton Match Preview & Statistical Record 9 Mar - Everton look to pick themselves up and continue their excellent league form with a trip to Sunderland which will be trickier than it looks if their home form is anything to go by. Mikel Arteta is expected to play but Leon Osman (groin) is a doubt, Lee Carsley is suspended and there are question marks over Manuel Fernandes. KO is 3pm. Vaughan done for the season Knee operation required 8 Mar - James Vaughan has fallen victim to yet another massive injury problem, his knee locking up in training ahead of the trip to Fiorentina. Vaughan has gone to knee specialist Dr Richard Steadman for an operation to fix the problem and is unlikely to play any further part in this current season. Moyes named Manager of the Month 7 Mar - David Moyes has been named Barclays Manager of the Month for February thanks to the Blues' excellent unbeaten record in the Premier League last month. It's the first time Moyes has received the accolade in two years. La Viola too strong for Everton Fiorentina 2 - 0 Everton 6 Mar - Everton came up against genuine quality for the first time in this Uefa Cup campaign and have a mountain to climb in the second leg after conceding twice in the final 20 minutes. Tim Howard looked to have set up a goalless draw with three saves from Christian Vieri but Kuzmanovic fired home from the edge of the box on 70 minutes before the Blues were undone by a moment of class, Montolivo volleying past Howard to double the lead. Sub Santana also passed up a gift for a third while David Moyes's side were let down by some poor distribution and couldn't find the telling final ball. Fiorentina vs Everton Match Preview & Statistical Record 5 Mar - Everton's Uefa Cup bandwagon rolls into the picturesque environs of Florence tomorrow evening for what is, on paper, the Blues' sternest European test since meeting Villarreal 2½ years ago. Whether David Moyes names an unchanged line-up from the Portsmouth win may rest on the fitness of Mikel Arteta who is doubtful. James Vaughan injured a knee in training and is ruled out. KO is 7:45pm; live coverage is on ITV4 and a handful of other international channels. Forum discussion Uefa to discuss disciplinary action Possible consequences for Everton and Brann 4 Mar - At a meeting on 20th March, officials from Uefa will discuss possible disciplinary action for the pitch invasion by some Everton fans at the end of last month's match in Bergen and missiles thrown from the home sections, including the pool ball aimed at Tim Howard (incidentally, Norwegian press report that the culprit has been identified). If you're going to Florence on Thursday, have fun and fly the flag for the Blues but, above all, please behave. Yak at the double as Blues power on Everton 3 - 1 Portsmouth 2 Mar - Everton reclaimed fourth spot again with another huge victory over fellow European hopefuls. The Blues were in the groove from kick off, Yakubu burying a header past James with just a minute gone. Totally against the run of play, though, Defoe brushed Glenn Johnson's angled ball past Howard and it wasn't until Andy Johnson came on with 20 minutes left that the home side's spark was reignited. Tim Cahill headed home Pienaar's pinpoint cross and Yakubu wrapped it up in the 81st minute when he powered home superbly from the angle. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Everton vs Portsmouth Match Preview & Statistical Record 2 Mar - With confidence soaring after their impressive win at City on Monday, Everton's quest for 4th place continues this weekend with the visit of Portsmouth. Mikel Arteta could figure despite his continuing groin/stomach complaint and David Moyes is hopeful that a couple of other players who have fallen victim to a bug spreading around the squad will recover in time. KO is 4pm on Sunday for live coverage on Sky Sports 1. Talks imminent for Lescott Left-back or Centre-back? 1 Mar - David Moyes has talked about his future plans for Joleon Lescott and the need for Everton to open contract negotiations with the star goal-scoring defender "soon". Lescott remains first-choice at left-back even though his prefered position is centre-back, with Moyes unable to rotate out either Yobo or Jagielka, who have been playing suberbly in the centre. Arteta battling the pain Stomach and groin niggles 28 Feb - Mikel Arteta has revealled how he has been playing games with a painful stomach and groin problem that has affected both his enjoyment and his form since October. Extensive rest may be the only cure, as David Moyes rules out surgery to fix the problem. But at least it does explain why Everton's most creative force has been struggling recently. Get well soon, Mikky! “The Enemy is at the Shankly Gates” Praise for Moyes's Everton in The Telegraph 27 Feb - Tim Rich in The Telegraph lends weight to the belief that Everton are "the real deal" as rivals to Liverpool for 4th place and acknowledges David Moyes's growth at the Goodison helm, citing his excellent recent transfer record and unwavering work ethic. "Nothing quite illustrates Everton's commitment better than a second half that saw City pour forward in a series of incoherent charges. Every attack was closed down, virtually every shot was blocked" Superb Everton's statement of intent Manchester City 0 - 2 Everton 25 Feb - Everton rose to the challenge of a seemingly daunting trip to Manchester City and turned in an immense display to handsomely win 2-0. After a clear penalty was turned down for handball and Steven Pienaar had been denied by the bar, Yakubu side-footed home after brilliant work by Tim Cahill. 8 minutes later, Joleon Lescott looped a header over the stranded Joe Hart and into the far corner to double Everton's lead setting up a defiant defensive stand in the second half. City were frustrated no end, as evidenced by Martin Petrov's late red card for kicking out at Leon Osman, while the Blues reclaimed 4th place from neighbours Liverpool. Match reports by Lyndon Lloyd and Paul Traill Manchester City vs Everton Match Preview & Statistical Record 24 Feb - Everton return to Premier League action on Monday evening following back-to-back wins over SK Brann looking to score a massive victory over Manchester City at Eastlands. With no fresh injury worries, Moyes has plenty of options. KO is 8pm with live coverage on Setanta Sports 1. Permanent Deal for Pienaar Fee agreed for midfield dynamo 23 Feb - Superb contributions from Steven Pienaar — not least being the credit for setting up all four goals in the second-half slaughter of SK Brann — have persuaded David Moyes to act well before the end of the season and make sure the services of this excellent player are retained. He confirmed that the loan agreement with Borrusia Dortmund includes an agreed fee (belived to be £2.5M) but there is a massive imperative to lock up this deal as soon as possible. Everton's emphatic march into last 16 Everton 6 - 1 SK Brann 21 Feb - Everton helped themselves to six goals and rounded off an emphatic 8-1 aggregate win over the Norwegian Champions, SK Brann, to secure a date with Fiorentina in the last 16. Superb interchange passing and an exquisite finish from Yakubu opened the floodgates before Andy Johnson's excellent cross-shot made it 2-0. Yakubu's terrific cut-back and shot made it three but Tim Howard blotted his and Everton's copybook when he missed a daisy-cutter free kick on the hour. Undeterred, Arteta benefited from a deflection to score the fourth, Yakubu sealed his hat-trick from close range and Johnson rounded it off in injury time with a fantastic 25-yard strike. Match report Everton vs SK Brann Uefa Cup Preview & Statistical Record 21 Feb - David Moyes has a virtually fully-fit squad from which to choose for the second leg against SK Brann as the Blues look to build on a superb result in the first game and book passage to the last 16. KO is 8pm with live coverage on Five in the UK and online on evertonTV. Everton: almost fully fit Only injury is Gardner 20 Feb - For only the second time this season, David Moyes has a full complement of players to chose from before the second leg agasint SK Brann kicks off tomorrow. The only lingering injury problem is Anthony Gardner, who is still suffering from the muscle problem that was affecting him when he joined Everton on loan from Spurs just as the transfer window closed. The People's Club New Everton Book 19 Feb - David Moyes provides some context for the indelible phrase he coined in his first press-conference as Everton manager nearly six years ago. That phrase may seem hackneyed at times but it has received a fresh boost as the title of a new Everton Book. David Moyes has appropriately written the foreword. The book costs £20 plus P&P and is available here. 4th best record in Europe Uefa Coefficients Table 18 Feb - On his superb European football website, Bert Kassies lists Everton in fourth place, behind only Man United, Seville and Barcelona in terms of their European record this season. (Shouldn't we be sixth as we have played one more game than Arsenal and Chelsea?). Such things are imortant in determining Everton's place within the complex draw for each stage of next season's European Competition... be it the Uefa Cup or Champions League. Bill promises more magic for Moyes ... if Everton qualify for Champions League 17 Feb - Chairman Bill Kenwright has promised to facilitate more rabbit tricks to support David Moyes in the transfer market if he guides Everton to qualification for the Champions League this season: "If David gets us to the Champions League, I will be crying tears of joy. And at the back of my head I'll be thinking money, money - millions. Why? To give it to David to spend... What we've always done... is try to give him what he wants each close season — by pulling at least one rabbit out of the hat." Everton's revival permanent? Tim Wigmore thinks so... 16 Feb - Football writer Tim Wigmore has been watching Everton's progression this season and his considered opinion is that Everton's revival has a quality of permanence due in no small part to the excellent management of David Moyes, who has developed a squad with the depth, quality and resilience to last a campaign, and whose methods have been emphatically vindicated. This squad is good enough... ... to win Uefa Cup and finish 4th 15 Feb - David Moyes has stated his confidence in the ability of the players he now has to bring home the bacon in terms of winning the Uefa Cup and qualifyting for Champions League football next season. "I do not see it as a choice, nobody can pick the one they want. But our squad is good enough. We have coped recently with a lot of players missing and we are still in fourth spot in the league.” Howard avoids pool-ball mishap Brann fans culpable... 14 Feb - A pool-ball was thrown at Tim Howard by a Brann fan during Wednesday's Uefa Cup game. A "scandal", as branded by a Norwegian paper, was avoided and Everton's astonished captain, Phil Neville, handed the ball to the match referee, Anton Genov, who is certain to mention the incident in his official report. Some kind of disciplinary action and Uefa officials may also look at the fact that a handful of Everton fans were allowed to invade the pitch at the final whistle. Blues take command of Brann tie SK Brann 0 - 2 Everton 13 Feb - Everton have one foot in the last 16 of the Uefa Cup thanks to an emphatic 2-0 victory over SK Brann in Bergen. The Blues largely controlled the first hour and Leon Osman's first-time rocket was their reward after 58 minutes. Brann, who rightly had a "goal" chalked off for a foul on Tim Howard, came to life a bit in the closing stages but substitute Victor Anichebe was on target yet again with an accomplished finish late on to preserve Everton's 100% record away from home in this competition so far this season. Match Report SK Brann vs Everton Uefa Cup Preview 13 Feb - Everton's Uefa Cup adventure resumes this evening in Bergen with the Round of 32 first leg against SK Brann. Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar are ruled out but Yakubu and Victor Anichebe return to the squad. KO is 7pm with live coverage on Five. No Arteta in Norway No Pienaar either 12 Feb - The Everton squad traveling to Norway for Wednesday's Uefa Cup game with SK Brann does not include either of our creative midfield players, with Mikel Arteta (groin) and Steven Pienaar (ankle) both out injured. Youngsters Jack Rodwell and Dan Gosling make up the numbers: Howard, Wessels, Hibbert, Neville, Lescott, Yobo, Jagielka, Baines, Valente, Carsley, Osman, Van der Meyde, Cahill, Fernandes, Yakubu, Vaughan, Johnson, Anichebe, Rodwell, Gosling Yak should be back for Brann Not forgiven; not forgotten... 11 Feb - The Daily Mail claims that Ayegbeni Yakubu will be selected to play against SK Brann in Everton's Uefa Cup match-up on Wednesday, after Moyes had demanded Yakubu's word he would return from international duty promptly. Yakubu has apologised to his team-mates for going Awol, although Moyes will not easily forgive the striker for breaking his word. Everton sleepwalk to narrow victory Jagielka header just enough 9 Feb - A second-half header by Phil Jagielka was enough to propel Everton past struggling Reading and condemn the Royals to a seventh-successive defeat. The introduction of James Vaughan at half time immediately aided in forgetting a mostly awful first half and Jagielka's looping header aside, the youngster's stunning overhead free kick and Andy Johnson's bad miss late on were the only highlights in a dysmal encounter. Match Report Yak excluded from tomorrow's squad 8 Feb - David Moyes has confirmed that Ayegbeni Yakubu will not be in the team to face Reading after he returned late from the Africa Cup of Nations. The player is said to be "full of remorse" but his manager declined further comment, saying that the matter is being dealt with internally. There are rumours he has been fined the maximium amount — £80,000. Everton vs Reading Match Preview 8 Feb - Everton hope to get back on the goal trail this weekend with the visit of Reading who are on a run of six straight Premier League defeats and who sit one place above the drop zone. Whether or not Yakubu will be back to resume his place in the Blues' attack remains to be seen, neither is it clear whether Tim Cahill will still be too jet-lagged to play any part. KO is 3pm. Overseas TV Season Comparison 5 points up on last season 7 Feb - With a third of the season left Steve Flanagan has put together another installment of the Season Comparison that looks at results against our Premier League opponents this season versus last. The good news is that Everton are 5 points up, recovering from being 4 points in the hole after the Clattenburg derby. “It's Offside this Onside Rule” 20-20 Vision Through Non-Blue Eyes 6 Feb - Iain MacIntosh is a Southend fan writing for a Singapore paper but he encapsulates the Evertonian agony succinctly: "Everton have regular attendances of 40,000,... millions of fans across the world,... a trophy cabinet filled with silverware and one of the brightest managers in the game. Will anything [about the broken offside rule] happen? Of course it won't. It's Everton. It is so... frustrating to know that, at some point in the near future, Liverpool or Manchester United are going to be eliminated from the Champions League through one of these decisions and the whole world is going to rise up as one and demand a change to this ludicrous rule." Moyes still fuming Offside Law is an Ass! 4 Feb - David Moyes is still fuming about the disallowed goal that cost Everton two vital points in the chase for a Champions League spot this season. He is convinced it was simply a wrong decision by the linesman, although the discussion gets sidetracked with concerns about the confusion underlying current interpretations of what is and isn't offside. Pienaar out for three weeks 3 Feb - So the latest news on Steven Pienaar is that he will be out for three more weeks with an ankle injury — an injury picked up where? Playing for South Africa in the African Federation Cup of Nations. As a result, he will now miss key Everton games against Reading and SK Brann. The Cup that just keeps on giving... Johnson robbed of late winner Blackburn Rovers 0 - 0 Everton 2 Feb - A fantastic game full of drama and incident, ended goalless despite numerous Everton chances and left them feeling a frustrating sense of deja-vu. Fernandes hit the post with an excellent free-kick, Jagielka had a header cleared off the line, and Johnson had a decent shout for a penalty waved away before controversy struck four minutes from time. After Vaughan had won the ball superbly off Freidel, well outside his area, and crossed to AJ while flat on his back, the striker's goal was cruelly — and incorrectly — ruled out for offside. Blackburn Rovers vs Everton Match Preview & Statistical Record 1 Feb - Everton take their patched-up squad along the road to Ewood Park for a tricky match-up with Blackburn Rovers this weekend. Steven Pienaar is back from Ghana but ruled out with an ankle injury while Tim Cahill and Leon Osman are also doubts with hamstring and calf/groin complaints respectively. David Moyes may name an unchanged line-up from the midweek draw with Spurs; new boy Anthony Gardner will warm the bench in place of the departed Alan Stubbs. KO is 3pm. Stubbs, Anderson out; Gardner in 31 Jan - It was an unexpectedly busy day at Goodison, starting with the surprise departure of Alan Stubbs to Derby County. Stubbs joined the Rams on a free transfer, agreeing deal that carries the option of 18 months and will see the veteran defender plunged into Paul Jewell's battle to avoid relegation. Then, just past 10pm rumours that Anthony Gardner had joined the Blues on loan from Tottenham until the end of the season were confirmed when the 6' 5" defender put pen to paper. Finally, Anderson Silva de France was allowed to join Barnsley on a permanent basis, ending a fruitless spell at Goodison for the Brazlian midfielder. Discuss it all in the Forum An evening of frustration for Everton Everton 0-0 Tottenham 30 Jan - David Moyes claims he is disappointed but relatively happy with a point but he must surely be ruing his side's failure to press home their dominance against surprisingly lacklustre Spurs and take advantage of Liverpool's defeat at West Ham. Andy Johnson had the best of the Blues' chances and was denied with the pick of them by a terrific stop by Radek Cerny. The striker also had a genuine penalty claim turned down when Tom Huddlestone clipped his heels in the box in the 33rd minute but overall Everton just lacked the killer instinct and had to settle for a frustrating goalless draw. Match report Everton vs Tottenham Hotspur Match Preview 29 Jan - Updated: Everton turn their minds back to an impressive Premier League campaign this week as they bid to put their Carling Cup defeat behind them with the visit of improving Spurs. Tim Cahill and Tony Hibbert are suspended while the Africa Cup of Nations absentees mean that the likes of Leon Osman (calf, groin) and Leighton Baines (ankle) could be asked to play through injections and the pain barrier due to the precious few options in terms of squad selection open to David Moyes. KO is 8pm Discuss it in the Forum | TV David Moyes Interview TheGame Podcast 28 Jan - In this 35MB podcast from The Times website, Guillem Balague and Gabriele Marcotti talk to David Moyes about the FA Cup, midfield stoppers, mellower man-management, backing Rafa, instant success, The Midget Gems, losing to the Big 4 and doing it without (or with) the big money. For the impatient ones, it starts at the 10:45 mark... Moyes reaffirms his mission As long as it takes 25 Jan - David Moyes has reaffirmed his commitment to the mission of taking Everton up to the next level, no matter how long it takes. “We are working really hard to get a level here. We are not going to stop, we’ll keep going. And if we have to do the same thing again for the next six years to get there, then we’ll do it." No way through for Everton Everton 0 - 1 Chelsea (Agg: 1-3) 23 Jan - Everton went looking for a first date at Wembley for 13 years but hit a yellow brick wall and a stark reality check to their aspirations of cracking the dominance of the big three. It was heart-breaking in the end; outclassed by a superb defensive perfomance, Everton could simply find no way of opening up Chelsea on the night, despite forcing a couple of last-ditch saves on his line from Peter Cech. Killing off any lingering hope, they succumbed to another Chelsea wonder-goal at the Park End with 21 minutes to go, Joe Cole controlling and then hammering home a long ball in a manner to which the Blues can currently only aspire. Match report Everton vs Chelsea Semi Final, 2nd Leg Preview 23 Jan - A date at Wembley for the first time in 13 years against Tottenham Hotspur is just one terrific performance away as Everton look to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg against Chelsea in the Carling Cup semi-final this evening. Both teams are depleted by their Africa Cup of Nations absentees, but Everton will be confident that the 12th man of Goodison Park under the floodlights can spur them to victory. KO is 8pm, with live coverage on Sky Sports, late night highlights on ITV. Discuss it in the Forum Dixie Dean: born 101 years ago Celebrate our Greatest Ever Goalscorer 22 Jan - On 22 January 1907, one William Ralph Dean was born. Today is the 101st anniversary of his birth, and a fitting time to remember the tremendous exploits of the great man, Everton's most prolific goalscorer and the man who produced an amazing total of 60 league goals in one season back in 1927-28. A timely inspiration for tomorrow's massive game at Goodison Park. Duo sign new deals New contracts run through 2012 21 Jan - Tony Hibbert and Leon Osman have put pen to paper signing new contracts that potentially extemd their employment at Evertonfor teh next four years. The two came through the ranks together and were both members of the successful 1998 FA Youth Cup side and, strange as it may be to some, both now aged 26 are the two longest-serving members of David Moyes's squad. A delighted Tony Hibbert said, "I’m made up that I’m here for another five years and I’m very happy to be here and carry on playing my football here." Now, give us a goal on Wednesday, Tony! Wigan Athletic 1 - 2 Everton AJ and Lescott on target 20 Jan - The Everton machine rolled on through the heavy JJB Stadium pitch and moved into 4th place thanks to two first-half goals and a second-half display that did enough to keep Wigan at bay. A howler by Titus Bramble left Andy Johnson in the clear to slot coolly through Chris Kirkland's legs before Joleon Lescott poked home a corner just before the break. The Latics made a fist of it when Tim Howard failed to claim Jason Koumas's free kick and the ball bounced in off Phil Jagielka but Everton won comfortably in the end. Match report Wigan Athletic vs Everton Match Preview 19 Jan - Everton make the short hop to the JJB Stadium to take on improving Wigan this Sunday spurred on by the incentive of taking sole possession of 4th place, for a day at least, and boosting morale ahead of the cup semi on Wednesday. Andy Johnson should be fit for selection and Manuel Fernandes could also make his second debut for the Blues. KO is 1:30pm. Discuss it in the Forum McFadden moves on Birmingham seal the deal 18 Jan - Birmingham City have completed the signing of James McFadden in a deal believed to be worth £5.75M. Birmingham are thought to have agreed to make a down-payment of £4.75M with a further £1M based on appearances. The Scotland international's move to St Andrews appeared to be in doubt late yesterday when reports on Sky Sports suggested that a rival bid had come from another club, but he agreed personal terms and passed a medical with the Midlands club as planned. Second club comes in for McFadden? Rival bid for Scotland forward reported 17 Jan - James McFadden's move to Birmingham City is in doubt following reports on Sky Sports that suggested that the Scotland international left St Andrews this afternoon without agreeing personal terms after being informed of a rival bid from another club. The identity of the new bidder hasn't yet been disclosed — the obvious speculation surrounds the Old Firm clubs — but some of tomorrow's national papers, specifically The Guardian believe that the 24 year-old will complete the switch to Birmingham tomorrow as planned. McFadden on verge of Goodison exit Scotland star set for Birmingham 16 Jan - James McFadden looks to be on the verge of leaving Goodison for Birmingham City after Everton accepted a £5.5m offer according to Sky Sports. The Scottish star has 18 months left of his current contract to run and while the Blues have not been looking to sell the 24 year-old, the offer from Alex McLeish and the Midlands club was too good to turn down from the perspective of both player and club alike — McFadden's first-team opportunities have been limited this season. No Assistant Manager for now Moyes happy with status quo 16 Jan - David Moyes has told the Everton Official Website he is happy with his backroom coaching team of and sees no need to change things at this point. He says it is extremely unlikely he will appoint a new Assistant Manager before the end of the season. Everton finally sign Gosling Young star “one for the future” 15 Jan - After waiting for Board-level approval, Everton have completed the signing of Plymouth starlet Dan Gosling in a £1M deal potentially rising to £2M. The 17-year-old midfielder has made just 24 senior appearances for Plymouth but has done enough to convince David Moyes he is ready to make the step up to the Premier League. He will wear Number 32 Manny cleared for Uefa Cup Confusion over his eligibility resolved 14 Jan - With Manuel Fernandes causing confusion by stating in this interview that he would not be eligible to play in the Uefa Cup, the Rulebook has been broken out and the complex clause 17.18 has been studied. Fernandes can be added to Everton's roster as an 'exceptional player' because he has not competed in the same competition for Valencia this season and the Spanish side is not involved in the Uefa Cup at the last 32 stage after being knocked out of the Champions League. Duo return to training this week Moyes needs Johnson & Osman fit 13 Jan - Andrew Johnson and Leon Osman are expected to return to training this week, boss David Moyes has revealed. Osman broke his toe before Christmas while Johnson failed a fitness test before the Manchester City game after getting a knock in training on Friday. With Manual Fernendes also available, Everton could be missing only the players who are away at the African Cup of Nations. Lescott goal just enough Everton 1 - 0 Manchester City 12 Jan - Joleon Lescott scored the only goal of a tightly-contested contest, converting the returning Mikel Arteta's superb cross from close range as Everton secured a vital win over their nearest rivals in the Premier League. The Blues dominated the early stages and made the crucial breakthrough before being pinned back for long periods. But the introduction by David Moyes of James Vaughan after an hour helped turn the tide back in his side's favour and they jumped over City into 5th place on the back of a fine victory. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Fernandes completes Everton return Portuguese back for second loan spell 12 Jan - Just months after he stunned the club with an eleventh-hour volte face and joined Valencia, Manuel Fernandes is an Everton player once more. The Portuguese midfielder completed a medical and signed on the dotted line yesterday to confirm his second spell at Goodison Park but did not receive international clearance in time to figure in the home victory over Manchester City this afternoon. Everton vs Manchester City Match Preview 11 Jan - 13 unbeaten has turned into four defeats in the last six games but Everton have the chance to score a morale-boosting victory and send a signal of intent this weekend when Manchester City make the short trip down the M62. Will Manuel Fernandes sign in time to be eligible — and would he be fit enough to start? — and go some way towards making up for the loss of Yakubu, Yobo and Pienaar to the African Nations Cup? KO is 3pm. Moyes to Newcastle: No truth to rumour Respective chairmen dismiss speculation 10 Jan - The chairmen of Everton and Newcastle have scotched rumours that David Moyes has been lined up as the next man through the revolving managerial door at St James Park. Bill Kenwright said, "There is no truth in it whatsoever," and cited the fact that Mike Ashley had phoned him to say, "Even if David was the greatest manager in the world — and I know you think he is — there's no way on God's Earth we would ever, ever do that kind of thing to Everton." Fernandes set for Goodison return Midfielder set for medical, talks tomorrow 9 Jan - After Valencia's official website announced that Manuel Fernandes' return to Goodison on loan has been completed, Everton have confirmed that the player will fly in to finalise the move and undergo a medical tomorrow. The deal struck with Valencia, who are committed to selling the Portuguese midfielder after a failed move to Mestalla last August, includes an option to buy the player for an undisclosed amount at the end of the season. Late goal makes it advantage Chelsea Chelsea 2-1 Everton 8 Jan - An injury time own goal by Joleon Lescott handed Chelsea a crucial one-goal lead going into the second leg, robbing Everton of the draw they looked to have secured thanks to Yakubu's 64th minute strike. David Moyes named a strong team and looked to contain Chelsea but the Blues fell behind to Shaun Wright-Phillips's superb goal. In the second half, the game turned when John Obi Mikel was dismissed for a studs-up lunge on Neville, and Yakubu got the Blues back on track with a brilliant stike off a McFadden free-kick. But Everton, so solid in defence for most of the game, surrendered parity when hesitation between Tim Howard and Lescott ended with Wright-Phillips' challenge prompting the defender to nod into his own net from a couple of yards out. Match report Chelsea vs Everton League Cup Semi Final Preview 8 Jan - Everton look to make immediate amends for Saturday's FA Cup disaster by earning enough at Stamford Bridge against a weakened Chelsea to bring back to Goodison in order to win the semi-final tie on home turf in a fortnight's time. David Moyes's midfield inspiration in the form of Pienaar, Osman and Arteta will be missing but Cahill returns in what will probably be a five-man midfield geared towards containment. KO is 7:45pm. Everton lose Pienaar battle Blues misinterpret 14-day rule 7 Jan - Everton officials were hopping mad after Fifa stepped in to end the club v country row over their interpretation of the 14-day rule. It means that Steven Pienaar will not face Chelsea in the Carling Cup semi-final first leg at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, as he flies out to join the South African squad in Durban. The rule relates to the start of the tournament in Ghana, on the 20th, not South Africa's first game, which is on the 23rd. Everton dumped out by Oldham Everton 0 - 1 Oldham Athletic 5 Jan - Everton were out of Get Out of Jail Free cards today as they crashed out of the FA Cup at the first hurdle at the hands of League One Oldham at Goodison Park. In a delayed kick-off due to a fire in Goodison Road, David Moyes took the opportunity to rest a few key first-team players against opposition from the lower leagues. The disruption didn't help at all, though; the Blues were off-key throughout and conceded on the stroke of half time when Gary McDonald's terrific strike beat Wessels. Moyes threw on Yakubu and Anichebe in the second half but Mark Crossley wasn't really troubled until Yakubu fired off the woodwork in the last seconds. There was to be no last-minute escape this time, though, and Everton joined the list of the day's 3rd Round Cup shocks. Everton vs Oldham Athletic FA Cup 3rd Round Preview 5 Jan - Already going great guns in the Premier League, through to the last 32 of the UEFA Cup and preparing for a Carling Cup semi-final first leg against Chelsea on Tuesday, Everton open battle on a fourth front this weekend as Oldham Athletic come to town in the FA Cup Third Round. KO is 3pm. Moyes unaware of Fernandes interest Boss denies the rumours 4 Jan - It's par for the course of every transfer window, and this one is no different. Excitable journalists just love to make stuff up and Alan Nixon in The Mirror seems to be a prime exponent of the art. David Moyes has expressed bemused surprise that he has any interest at all in signing Manuel Fernandes, as claimed. Strangely, the player's agent says the loan deal is complete, and only needs ratifying by Valencia! Someone is telling porkies... Everton to announce Gosling arrival Young Plymouth midfielder snapped up 3 Jan - Everton hope to announce the signing of Dan Gosling, the 17 year-old protege from Plymouth Argyle, before the weekend. The fee will reportedly be an initial £1m, rising to £3m based on appearances, for a player who had a trial spell at Chelsea last March and has scored two goals in eight starts in the Pilgrims' push for promotion to the Premiership. While he played primarily in midfield for the Pilgrims, David Moyes believes his best position is right back. Lukas Jutkiewicz's loan move to Home Park may well have laid the foundations for the Blues' first acquisition of the month. More at the Daily Post. Planning Application Submitted Full steam ahead to Destination Kirkby 2 Jan - The next step in relocating the home of Everton Football Club outside the City of Liverpool to the suburb of Kirkby was taken today as Everton and Tesco submitted their planning application for approval by Knowsley Municpal Borough Council. The scheme includes a new 50,000-seater stadium and shopping development valued at £400M. Johnson delivers the goods Middlesbrough 0 - 2 Everton 1 Jan - A seriously depleted (and, one might have thought, demoralised) Everton squad travelled north and came back with a tremendous result in very difficult circumstances against a dogged and resilient Boro side. The first half was tight but Pienaar finally released Johnson in the second and he converted superbly. Five minutes later, and a quick one-two with Johnson let McFadden score an equally well executed goal and earn The Blues all three points. Happy New Year! Match report Middlesbrough vs Everton Match Preview 1 Jan - Everton kick off the New Year in the northeast with a trip to erratic Middlesbrough as they look to bounce back from the home defeat at the hands of Arsenal that brought 2007 to a cruel end. Mikel Arteta is suspended and both Leon Osman and Thomas Gravesen are out injured so David Moyes will have some decisions over formation and personnel to make. KO is 3pm; limited TV coverage Discuss it in the Forum David France Collection The final transfer 31 Dec - [Link Fixed]We have received notification that the David France Collection was officially transferred to the Everton Collection Charitable Trust earlier today. This is the right and fitting culmination to a saga of uncertainty and lack of interest from the Club that has finally been resolved through the dedicated determination of a few resolute Evertonians. Second-half collapse scuppers Everton Everton 1 - 4 Arsenal 29 Dec - Everton tasted bitter defeat against the top four once more — and potentially lost their midfield inspiration for three matches — after collapsing in the second half. The Blues dominated the first half and deservedly led through Cahill's 19th-minute opener off Arteta's corner. But as injury and fatigue chips away at Everton's season, the lack of depth in quality in Moyes's squad was exposed as Eduardo nipped in past Jagielka to score twice, the second after controlling the ball with his hand, in the first 15 minutes after the restart to turn the game on its head. After Bendtner was sent off, the momentum should have been with Everton but another defensive howler allowed Adebyaor to steal a third for Arsenal. Then, weak referee Atkinson felt like evening up the sides and sent off Arteta after his elbow caught Fabregas and late sub Rosicky had all the space he needed to fire home a fourth at the end. Match reports from Lyndon Lloyd and Paul Traill Everton vs Arsenal Match Preview 28 Dec - Everton's final fixture of 2007 is a home clash with Arsenal who lost the top spot in the Premier League on Boxing Day when they were held to a goalless draw by Portsmouth. The Blues will be hoping to make it three straight home wins over the Gunners and David Moyes could name an unchanged line-up if Thomas Gravesen is fit. KO is 5:15pm with live coverage on Setanta Sports in the UK. Discuss it in the Forum Normal service resumed Everton 2 - 0 Bolton Wanderers 26 Dec - Everton put Sunday's disappointment at Old Trafford and a poor first half here today behind them to roar into a 2-0 lead in the second period at Goodison Park and secure a sixth successive home win in all competitions. Mikel Arteta returned, Thomas Gravesen started in midfield, and Phil Neville moved back to his best position at right back, and it was the latter who broke through Bolton's thick white line. Jussi Jaaskeleinen, under the attentions of Tim Cahill, missed Neville's clipped ball over the top and it sailed into the net. Then, a well-worked move ended with referee Stiles playing the advantage to allow Joleon Lescott to set up Cahill from the byline and the Australian's first-time finish was executed to perfection to seal a hard-earned victory. Match report Everton vs Bolton Wanderers Team News 25 Dec - Tim Cahill is the latest doubt to add to a growing injury list and he could miss the Bolton match on Boxing Day with a back strain picked up against Manchester United. Mikel Arteta missed the defeat at Old Trafford through illness but could be fit to face Gary Megson's improved outfit. Celtic move for Faddy rebuffed Loan a non-starter, says Wyness 24 Dec - Another move for James McFadden, this time in the form of a loan request from Celtic, has been rejected by Everton, who will need the cover Faddy provides during the upcoming African Nations Cup. Manchester United 2 - 1 Everton Cahill equaliser not enough 23 Dec - With no Mikel Arteta, Everton would always look to be under pressure, and went behind to a deflected Ronaldo goal in the first half. But Everton, resilient as ever, soon equalized through Tim Cahill. The second half was very tight, Everton holding the Reds and waiting patiently for their chance to strike. But a foolish Pienaar challenge gave away a penalty in the last three minutes and Ronaldo made no mistake, ending a great run for the Blues. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Manchester United vs Everton Match Preview 22 Dec - Everton face their sternest test of the season so far when they take their 13-match unbeaten sequence to Old Trafford to take on the Champions Manchester United. The Blues will be without inured trio Leon Osman, Leighton Baines and Alan Stubbs but Yakubu, Mikel Arteta, Tim Cahill, Joseph Yobo and Tim Howard are all expected to return after being rested in midweek. KO is noon on Sunday to allow for live TV coverage on Setanta Sports in the UK and practically everywhere else. Discuss it in the Forum Uefa Cup Draw Everton v SK Brann 21 Dec - Everton will play Brann Bergen of Norway in the final 32 of the Uefa Cup. The first leg will taka place in Bergen on February the 13th or 14th with the home leg to be played at Goodison Park on the 21st. Brann are Norwegian Champions this year and unbeaten at home. They finished thrid in Group D. If Everton progress to the last 16, they will meet Rosenborg or Fiorentina. 100% Blues make history in Alkmaar AZ Alkmaar 2 - 3 Everton 20 Dec - Prior to this evening, AZ Alkmaar possessed the longest-standing unbeaten home record in European competition and had never failed to reach the last 32 of the Uefa Cup. But under-strength Everton had scant regard for such pedigree as they marched to their fourth-successive victory in Group A — they and Bordeaux being the only two sides to take maximum points from the group stage. Andy Johnson gave them the perfect start, driving home after only a minute but AZ, who needed to win to progress themselves, drew level 15 minutes later through Pelle. With half time looming, though, Phil Jagielka headed home from close range to restore Everton's lead. As expected, Alkmaar, pressed in the second half and equalised with 25 minutes left through Jaliens. Everton, though, weren't finished, and Victor Anichebe fed James Vaughan with a lovely ball allowing the substitute to score the winner with 10 minutes to go. Discuss it in the Forum | Player Ratings by Dutch Shaffaer AZ Alkmaar vs Everton Match Preview 20 Dec - Everton's final match in Group A is a "dead rubber" as far as they are concerned seeing as they have already won the group, but AZ Alkmaar, their opponents this evening, know that victory for them would see them progress to the next phase as well. David Moyes, meanwhile, will be keen to preserve his side's 100% record in the group stage and extend their unbeaten run to 13 games despite leaving some big names back on Merseyside. KO is 7:45pm with TV coverage on channel Five. Faddy going nowhere Wyness reaffirms EFC position 19 Dec - Everton CEO Keith Wyness has reiterated Everton's position regarding the player once dubbed by David Moyes as "Scottish Rooney" as interest from Celtic is rumoured ahead of next month's transfer window. "James McFadden is under contract to Everton and we have made it clear we don't want to sell him. He is a major player in our squad and will continue to play a vital role for the team. If any club made an approach in January they would be wasting their time." Osman out for Six Weeks Broken toe for midfielder 18 Dec - Everton have been stunned by the news that Leon Osman, who has been in excellent form during the last two months, broke his toe during the first five minutes of the West Ham cup game last week. The x-ray shows a big crack that will keep him sidelined for four to six weeks during a crucial period when Everton lose players to the AFCON. Resolute and Tireless Double Hammer blow a big test 17 Dec - David Moyes sees the one-two double strike over the Hammers achieved by his players as something of a test they passed with flying colours: “What we had to do was get the players believing that they could win and, after we won on Wednesday night, we gained confidence from it and were determined to try and win this one as well. I knew it would be difficult and that’s what it proved.” Irrepressible Blues in Hammers double West Ham United 0 - 2 Everton 15 Dec - The Everton bandwagon rolled on to a 12th game without defeat as they tasted sweet victory at Upton Park for the second time in four days. After a tight first half in which both sides exhibited some beautiful football it was Yakubu who broke the deadlock on the stroke of half time, ending another fine move by heading home Tim Cahill's headed pass. After a solid second half in which Leon Osman wasted a gilt-edged chance to seal it and the Hammers increased the pressure, a brilliant finish on the breakaway by Andy Johnson sealed the second installment of Everton's East End smash-and-grab story. Superbly disciplined and professional stuff from the Blues who have now won an incredible 10 in 12 in all competitions! West Ham United vs Everton Match Preview 14 Dec - Part two at Upton Park this weekend and a chance for Everton to complete a quick Cup and League double over injury-hit West Ham. Will David Moyes be tempted to field the same side that completed the 90 midweek or will he feel compelled to change a winning line-up in the middle of a four-game run away from home? KO is 3pm. Discuss it in the Forum “If Arsenal had played like us” David Moyes all smiles 13 Dec - "If Arsenal had played the way we played in the first half people would all be talking about it. We were very good," said David Moyes after Everton's excellent smash-and-grab League Cup victory over the Hammers. "This was a good result for us, to come to Upton Park in a cup tie is a hard thing to do, and this was our third draw away from home. But the league is our priority and I'm looking forward to coming back on Saturday. Hopefully we'll do the same again." Yakubu sends Everton into the semis West Ham United 1 - 2 Everton 12 Dec - Yet another devastating late show secured Everton's passage to their first cup semi-final appearance in 12 years as Yakubu scored with just 90 seconds left of regulation time to seal a superb comeback at Upton Park. After an even start, West Ham took the lead when Carlton Cole beat the offside trap and slid the ball under Tim Howard to make it 1-0. But the Blues rallied after the half-hour mark and were rewarded when Leon Osman side-footed beautifully past Robert Green to level the tie. Everton were better overall in the second half but extra time was beckoning ominously when Yakubu capitalised on a mix-up between Danny Gabbidon and 'keeper Robert Green to prod home and win the tie at the death. Unbeaten now in 11, Everton's wonderful run of form rolls on! West Ham United vs Everton Carling Cup QF Preview 12 Dec - Everton go in search of their first appearance in a major cup semi-final in 12½ years as they take on West Ham United, the first part in a Cup & League double-header that will see the Blues back at Upton Park again on Saturday. Leighton Baines and Alan Stubbs are ruled out but Nuno Valente and Tony Hibbert return, providing David Moyes with enough options to cover at the back. Kick off is 7:45pm.  Limited TV coverage Clip: David Moyes's pre-match thoughts Blues suffer Youth Cup defeat 2007-08 FA Youth Cup 11 Dec - Everton's high-flying academy side took on Bristol City tonight in the Third Round of the FA Youth Cup at Goodison Park but fell to a 2-0 defeat. An own goal by James McCarten and a last-minute strike from Marlon Jackson put the southwesterners through to the next round. AGM Report 10 Dec - Colm Kavanagh provides his account of the 128th Annual General Meeting of Everton Football Club, providing further context to last week's press reports of a meeting that was dominated by the emotive stadium issue. Similarly, the unofficial minutes have been compiled and made available to us. Yakubu hat-trick seals excellent win Everton 3 - 0 Fulham 8 Dec - Aiyegbeni Yakubu scored all three goals as Everton rolled to another emphatic home victory and extended their unbeaten run to an impressive ten games. The Nigerian reacted instinctively to Antti Niemi's block of Tim Cahill's superb volley to prod home five minutes into the second half, and was then perfectly placed to head home Phil Jagielka's flick-on from Mikel Arteta's corner to double the advantage on the hour. With confidence brimming, the Blues put the icing on the cake when Yakubu profited from sterling work by Steven Pienaar and completed his hat-trick with fine striker's goal with 11 minutes to go. Match report | Discuss it in the Forum Everton vs Fulham Match Preview 7 Dec - Mission accomplished in Europe, the focus returns to the quest to qualify for the Uefa Cup again via the league as Fulham visit Goodison Park tomorrow. With both Valente and Hibbert injured, options at the back are limited but David Moyes is likely to ring a few changes again for this one as the Blues look to stretch their impressive unbeaten run to 10 games. Kick off is 3pm.
Patience Pays Off As Blues Go Through Everton 1 - 0 Zenit St Petersburg 5 Dec - A Tim Cahill strike six minutes from time broke the stubborn resistance of Zenit St Petersburg and confirmed Everton's passage to the knockout phase as the winners of Group A. After a bright start and some nice football, the Blues looked to have been handed the three points when Nicolas Lombaerts was wrongly adjudged to have handled Cahill's goalbound shot and was sent off on the half hour. But Arteta blasted the penalty over the bar and it took a further 55 minutes of pressure — and a couple of real scares by the impressive Russian Champions — before Cahill struck home the loose ball almost on the goalline after Malafeev had blocked Joleon Lescott's shot. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Discuss it in the Forum Everton vs Zenit St Petersburg Team News 5 Dec - Everton look to continue their 100% record in the group stages of the Uefa Cup as the newly-crowned Russian Champions from the historic city of St Petersburg come to Goodison Park this evening. Phil Jagielka deputises for Joseph Yobo (ankle) but Tim Howard plays, while Nuno Valente and Leon Osman make way for Leighton Baines and James McFadden. Andy Johnson starts up front in place of Yakubu. The Blues need a draw to guarantee a spot in the next round but will be aiming for victory in their quest to finish top of Group A. Kick off is 7:45pm.
Kirkby dominates AGM headlines Kenwright grilled over move proposal 4 Dec - Bill Kenwright admitted to Shareholders this evening that if the Kirkby Project falls through then re-developing Goodison Park would be "Plan B" and the LCC-backed proposal for Scotland Road "Plan C" — the club have reiterated tonight that that site won't work even though Kenwright admitted they don't know how much it would actually cost. The Chairman faced criticism and passion from some Shareholders for the planned move out of Liverpool. In other business, Robert Earl was confirmed as a Director — a year after Kenwright insisted the entertainment mogul had no intention of joining the Board — and an operating loss of £500,000 for the past fiscal year was confirmed. KEIOC highlight major issues in newsletter Food for thought with AGM looming 3 Dec - KEIOC have contacted all Everton shareholders with their first newsletter which highlights the need for the Board to investigate all other options in relation to the proposed ground move, exposes Keith Wyness' three year plan and presents a series of searching questions, the answers to which will be most interesting to all Evertonians! View the PDF Goalless stalemate on the South Coast Portsmouth 0 - 0 Everton 1 Dec - The forecast was for goals as two of the Premier League's highest-scoring teams met at Fratton Park but in a tightly-contested affair neither Portsmouth nor Everton could find their shooting boots. The two sides seemed to spend the first half sizing each other up and their five-man midfields cancelled each other out but the Blues looked better in the second period once Andy Johnson had been introduced and David Moyes switched to 4-4-2. Pompey probably shaded it in terms of chances created but this was a valuable point earned against a form team and rival for European qualification. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Portsmouth v Everton Match Preview & Statistics 30 Nov - Everton travel to Portsmouth with the south-coast club still reeling over the arrest of manager 'Appy 'Arry Redknapp. But tomorrow the focus will be on football with the feeling that Everton will be doing very well to continue their unbeaten run and bring home a result from Fratton Park, as free-scoring Pompey are still three points and two places above us in the Premier League. Too young for the Scotland Job Moyes feels he's just at the beginning 30 Nov - Plenty of interesting comments from David Moyes in this Sporting Life interview covering a number of current issues: his opinions about the Scotland job; about the FA charges and freedom of speech; and about Yakubu needing to adapt when he came to Goodison. Reserves goalfest Wigan Athletic Res 1 - 5 Everton Res 29 Nov - Everton Reserves did their best to emulate the senior team's recent goal exploits, bashing five past a hapless Wigan team at Robin Park. James Vaughan opened the scoring in typical style and helped Andy van der Meyde get on the scoresheet before the Latics got one back. But three more goals from Vidarsson, Jutekiewicz and Rodwell sealed a great road win for the Blues. Moyes ahead on points Highest win percentage 28 Nov - David Moyes has finally edged ahead of Everton's most successful Premiership manager — the legendary Joe Royle — in one key Opta statistic: percentage of wins after overseeing twice as many games. A trophy is all that Moyes now needs to claim the crown outright. Will this be the season? Moyes charged over Clattenburg FA finally act against Everton manager 27 Nov - It was more than a month ago now but the sharp blokes at the FA have finally got wind of comments made by David Moyes after the atrocious refereeing exhibition by Mark Clattenburg in last month's derby that "call into question Mr Clattenburg's integrity and/or imply that Mr Clattenburg was motivated by bias." At least they got that bit right! Black Cats ripped to shreds at Goodison Everton 7 - 1 Sunderland 24 Nov - Everton unloaded on hapless Sunderland and recorded their biggest victory under David Moyes so far with a master display of attacking football. Yakubu and Tim Cahill grabbed a brace each and there were goals for Leon Osman, Andy Johnson and Steven Pienaar as the Blues exhibited some wonderful football while also taking the direct route for three of their seven goals. There was even room for some defensive disarray that gifted Sunderland a consolation goal through Dwight Yorke late in the first half but this was a day not to be ruined by Roy Keane's beleaguered side. Match reports by Lyndon Lloyd and Paul Traill Scope for expansion to 75,000 Wyness ups long-term capacity goal 22 Nov - Everton CEO Keith Wyness says he is hopeful that the new Kirkby stadium can be developed to hold as many as 75,000 — if success on the field warrants such expansion. While some welcome the apparent ambition, many fans believe that, because we can't fill Goodison Park, that represents an unrealistic target and Bestway's Head of Property, Malcolm Carter, says it represents a moving of the goalposts from earlier plans while also hinting that he is losing patience with Everton over their refusal to discuss the "loop" site on Scotland Road. What do you think? Comment here NWDA to study Financial Benefit Calculating the cost of losing EFC 21 Nov - The Northwest Development Agency are to conduct a study into the benefits of keeping Everton FC within the city boundary of Liverpool. This may be a precursor to some more definitive action from the LCC in terms of coming up with a realistic alternative to Kirkby that is "deliverable". Irvine confirmed as Preston boss 20 Nov - Alan Irvine says that the Preston North End manager's job was too good an opportunity to turn down as he was confirmed as Paul Simpson's successor at Deepdale. Irvine ends a five-year stint at Everton as Assistant Manager to David Moyes to take up the reins at the club where Moyes himself cut his managerial teeth. Stars absent for up to six weeks Two-week ANC training camp 19 Nov - Nigerian coach Berti Vogts has confirmed that he will be calling in his players for a two-week training camp startting on 4 January, ahead of the African Nations Cup. “That is the way that things have to be and there will be no exceptions.” Yakubu, Yobo and Anichebe are likely to be named, while Pienaar will also be called up by South Africa. The Dixie Dean Story Coming in May 2008 14 Nov - The Dixie Dean Story will have a three-performance run at Liverpool Olympia Theatre in May 2008. Produced by Aintree-based theatre company Arts2u Limited, under the direction of Gillian Beattie, the show will feature digital technology and music with a script written by author and broadcaster John Keith, who wrote Dixie’s biography. Sponsorship packages for the show can now be booked... Side by side in Kirkby Town Centre New artists impressions 14 Nov - The latest daylight pictorial mock-ups of future developments in Kirkby Town Centre (aka “Destination Kirkby”) are designed to give Kirkby residents and other interested parties the look and feel of what it will be like to have a brand new Tesco Store and a brand new Everton Stadium side by side. The three-day exhibition is being held at Kirkby leisure centre, next to the development site. There is also a short promotional video that starts by focusing on the magic of Goodison and ends with the notion of "New Everton". Seasonal Comparisons Quite the mixed bag! 13 Nov - The seasonal comparison Steve Flanagan revived for us some seasons ago continues to provide a solid grounding for assessing current progress in the Premier League, by comparing coresponding results this season against last. It confirms that, after a good start, we slipped into the deficit zone... and we're still there, two points off the pace, despite the up-kick of recent cup games. Those two points would put us in 7th or 6th, depending on where they came from. King James of Scotland McFadden the enigma 12 Nov - Written before Sunday's game at Chelsea, and the crucial shot-cum-delivery that Tim Cahill converted so brilliantly, it would be remiss of us not to highlight this fascinating in-depth analysis of James McFadden that appeared in the Sunday Times, prepared with an eye to next weekend's international distractions. And there's another article examining The McFadden Conundrum in Scotland on Sunday by Nick West Moment of Cahill Magic Stuns Chelsea Chelsea 1 - 1 Everton 11 Nov - A fantastic overhead volley by Tim Cahill stunned Chelsea and rescued a point for Everton at the death of an absorbing contest at Stamford Bridge. Avram Grant's side hadn't conceded a goal in nine hours of Premier League football and thought they had outclassed plucky Everton when Didier Drogba capitalised on lax defending and headed home from a corner with 19 minutes to go. Cahill had other ideas, though, and after James McFadden's shot fell short, the Australian rocketed the loose ball past Carlo Cudicini in dramatic fashion and preserved Everton's six-game unbeaten run. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Chelsea vs Everton Match Preview & Statistical Record 10 Nov - The irresistable force of Everton's recent form meets the immovable object of Chelsea's home league record at Stamford Bridge this Sunday. David Moyes's side will be hoping to be the first team to beat Chelsea on their turf in 3½ years and record their seventh win in all competitions in the process. Doubts over Mikel Arteta (groin), however, cast a shadow over the manager's preparations. KO is 2pm GMT. Discuss it in the Forum Victor the Star in Win over Nürnberg 1. FC Nürnberg 0 - 2 Everton 8 Nov - Victor Anichebe came off the bench to make all the difference again for Everton as they recorded a handsome fifth straight win. The Blues burst out the gates and could have been a goal up inside 30 seconds but Blazek turned Cahill's sliding effort onto the post. Cahill again went close before Kluge and Reinhardt caused a scare with shots from the angle and Saenko was foiled one-on-one by Howard. Late in the second half, though, at a time when the home side were upping the pressure, Anichebe was pulled down by Glauber and Arteta made no mistake from the spot. Then, Arteta sent the young striker away and he brilliantly held off Manari before slotting cooly through the 'keeper's legs. The Super Blues remain top of Group A with maximum points. Match reports by Lyndon Lloyd and Paul Traill 1. FC Nürnberg vs Everton Uefa Cup Preview & Statistical Record 7 Nov - It's a European tie on German soil against Nürnberg from the Bundesliga this Thursday with almost certain qualification for the last 32 within Everton's grasp. Alan Stubbs (hamstring), Andy Johnson (ankle) and James Vaughan (thigh) are ruled out but Leighton Baines traveled with the squad and will have a late fitness test as David Moyes his options and looks for a fifth straight victory in all competitions. Kick off is 8:05pm UK time. [TV] Discuss it in the Forum AJ signs contract extension Commits to five more years 6 Nov - Andrew Johnson has signed a new long-term deal to keep him at Everton. The 26-year-old, who has repeatedly been linked with moves to Arsenal, Chelsea, West Ham, Spurs, etc has agreed a five-year deal that extends his contract through 2013, hopefully ending the ridiculous press speculation that he is "unsettled on Merseyside". Nürnberg tickets canceled Match against Everton deemed “high risk” 5 Nov - It's now official that Evertonians who booked match tickets direct through Nürnberg's own web site or phone service using credit cards with English addresses have had their tickets canceled following a decision by Uefa, Nuremberg council and the German club to classify Thursday's match as "high risk". This after it emerged that English-based fans have been sourcing their tickets direct from FC Nürnberg, who were quite happy to sell them to Blues fans and even had the intelligence to place them next to the official away block in their ground, to put all the Blues fans together. To listen to the recorded message, ring +49 180 5050326 or check your order status on the website through which you bought your tickets. Nürnberg have stated that a full refund will be given to the unlucky Blues fans who booked their tickets this way. Blues at the double in thrilling finale Everton 3 - 1 Birmingham City 3 Nov - Two goals in injury time rescued all three points for Everton after Olivier Kapo's 79th-minute equaliser looked to have punished them for not pressing home their superiority earlier. The Blues dominated the early going, Yakubu going close before finishing smartly off Pienaar's pass following great work by Arteta to make it 1-0 after 9 minutes. The Nigerian could have added to his tally and Lee Carsley also went close but the longer it went on without a crucial second goal the greater the danger of being pegged back. With the game heading to a disappointing conclusion in injury time, though, the Blues broke Birmingham hearts with two goals in a minute. First Carsley smashed home and then substitute James Vaughan wrapped it up with the third. Match reports from Paul Traill and Kevin Gillen Everton vs Birmingham City Match Preview 2 Nov - Everton look to extend their three-match winning streak this weekend when Birmingham City come to town. David Moyes is likely to ring more changes with on-song stars like Yakubu, Cahill, Gravesen, Yobo, Howard and Arteta itching to get back into the starting lineup. It's a rare 3pm (GMT) Saturday kick-off this weekend. Note for US readers: that's 11am EDT/8am PDT, [Limited TV] Super-sub Cahill puts Everton through Luton Town 0 - 1 Everton (aet) 31 Oct - Everton are into the quarter finals of a cup competition for the first time under David Moyes but they made heavy work of squeezing past Luton Town of League One at Kenilworth Road. Tim Cahill came off the bench to turn fellow sub Thomas Gravesen's corner into the goal 11 minutes into extra time before Joleon Lescott cleared off his own line in the closing stages to keep the Hatters at bay. After a lethargic first half, Moyes's side, which featured five personnel changes, stepped it up in the second and went close through Leon Osman, Victor Anichebe and substitute James Vaughan but were forced to play an extra half hour by a plucky Luton who just didn't have the quality to make their own breakthrough against the Blues' superior defence. Luton Town vs Everton Match Preview & Statistical Record 29 Oct - The next stage in Everton's quest to finally win the League Cup takes them to Kenilworth Road on Wednesday where middling League One outfit Luton Town will provide the opposition. The Blues will be hoping to repeat their performance in the reverse of this tie last season when they hammered the Hatters 4-0 at Goodison in Round 3. Kick off is 7:45pm. Everton make simple work of Derby Derby County 0 - 2 Everton 28 Oct - Everton secured a fairly comfortable victory, their first post-Europe win of the campaign albeit one marred by injury to Leighton Baines, thanks to a goal in each half at Pride Park. Mikel Arteta finished off Phil Jagielka's run and Yakubu's dummy with a low shot to make it 1-0 after 24 minutes. With chances at a premium, Steven Pienaar put Yakubu in one-on-one with Steven Bywater in the Derby goal and he made no mistake to double the Blues' advantage with 28 minutes to go. Moyes taking more care of Cahill Asian Cup may have been avoided 27 Oct - David Moyes talks about the huge boost of having Tim Cahill fit again, but questions the effort put in to get him fit for the Asian Cup in the Summer. Cahill played only a bit-part but it may have been enough to weaken the healing of his metatarsal, whcih cracked again v Werder Bremen. Improved boots are now meant to help solve the problem. Derby County vs Everton Match Preview & Statistical Record 26 Oct - Everton hope to translate success into Europe into three Premier League points when they visit struggling Derby County this weekend. The Blues lost both times following the fixtures against Metalist Kharkiv but will be looking for more goals after finding their scoring boots against Larissa on Thursday. Tim Cahill could start a second successive game after returning from injury but Phil Neville and Tony Hibbert are suspended. KO is 2pm GMT. Blues set the pace in Group A Everton 3-1 AE Larissa 25 Oct - Everton revealed some little seen magic at Goodison Park scoring three excellent goals and taking pole position in Uefa Cup Group with what was eventually a comfortable win over Larissa. Tim Cahill returned to action and took just 14 minutes to find the net, heading home Leon Osman's cross from close range. Osman himself then capped a breathtaking move with an equally stunning shot to make it 2-0 just after the break. The Greeks pulled one back following Joleon Lescott's uncharacteristic howler but Victor Anichebe banished some late nerves with a solo third. Everton vs AE Larissa Match Preview & Statistical Record 24 Oct - Everton get the chance to put their derby misery behind them tomorrow evening when they entertain Greek side Larissa — Ibrahima Back-o'-the-Echo and all — in the opening game of Uefa Cup Group A at Goodison Park. James Vaughan, Tim Cahill and Thomas Gravesen all apparently have a chance of playing some part as David Moyes casts his eye over arguably his longest list of available players so far this season. Vaughan fit and ready? Could be back for Larissa 24 Oct - Everton are ready for a massive boost with the hopeful return of James Vaughan to the firing line (or should that be mis-firing line!). The lively young striker who is highly rated by pretty much everyone has missed the last two months of football after dislocating his shoulder back in August, but looks set to be part of the squad named to play Larissa tomorrow night. Moyes accuses ref of bias 22 Oct - David Moyes has questioned whether Mark Clattenburg is fit to referee and accused the official of showing favouritism towards Liverpool's players after he made a string of contentious decisions that insensed Evertonians at Goodison Park on Saturday. There is talk of Clattenburg being disciplined after the FA review the match, but let's be honest: a fine for Moyes is the most likely outcome. [See also: David Prentice in the Echo Everton beaten in cruel fashion Everton 1-2 Liverpool 20 Oct - Everton's control of the 206th Merseyside derby and their hopes of recording a second successive home win over the Dark Side were ripped away from them in cruel and controversial fashion eight minutes into the second half. Leading by Hyppia's first-half own goal, the result of increasing pressure by the home side, the Blues were made to pay when Hibbert felled Gerrard and was harshly sent off as the last man by referee Clattenburg who changed his mind from yellow to red following a passing comment by the Liverpool midfielder. Kuyt scored from the spot but David Moyes's men looked to have heroically earned a point until Neville saved Lukas' goal-bound shot on the line and he too was sent off for handball. Kuyt scored his second spot kick of the game in stoppage time while two clear penalties for identical, blatant holding infringements on Lescott went unpunished. Match report by Paul Traill Everton vs Liverpool Match Preview & Statistical Record 19 Oct - Updated: The first derby of the season arrives tomorrow under the full glare of the Sky cameras as Everton go in search of what would be only their second win in the last five league matches. Victory, however, would pull them level on points with the Dark Side and mark the first time the Blues have won consecutive home derbies for 12 years. Tim Cahill, Thomas Gravesen and James Vaughan are all back in training and are in the frame to varying degrees — the Australian being the most likely to figure — but may have to settle for a place on the bench. Let battle commence... Discuss it in the Forum Tim may be fit for the Derby 18 Oct - Tim Cahill has been training since Monday and is raring to get back on the field for David Moyes, with the derby looming on Saturday. But don't be too surprised if we hear that old cliché — that this game came "too soon" for the enigmatic Ozzie midfield goal-ace. Ticket problems loom again 17 Oct - Everton remain "hopeful" that the ongoing wildcat postal strike in Liverpool will not disrupt ticket distribution for the derby, when all indicators suggest clearly that it already has. Liverpool FC, on the other hand, have taken action and are requiring that all the kopites collect their tickets in person ahead of the game. Update: the strike ended on Wednesday but EFC are urging fans who have not received their tickets should pick them up from Goodison on Thursday or Friday. City Council to fight for Everton Meeting tomorrow at 5pm 16 Oct - Liverpool City Council will meet tomorrow evening (17th Oct) at 5pm and one topic for discussion is the future of Everton Football Club and the need to secure the future of Everton FC within the City boundary. The Council will be seeking answers to a number of questions and the KEIOC group will be making a short presentation at the meeting to detail the benefits of keeping the Club within the city boundary. The meeting takes place at the Town Hall at 5pm and support for the motion is welcome. Another great day for Scotland McFadden seals win again! 13 Oct - James McFadden was the hero again for Scotland, providing assists for the first two goals and then sealing a handsome 3-1 win over Ukraine by scoring the third at a critical point in the game (after Schevchenko had pegged the score back to 2-1) to send Hampden Park wild with jubilation and further improve Scotland's chances of reaching the finals of Euro 2008. Elsewhere, Joleon Lescott made his full England debut and Phil Neville also played a part, both as subs, in England's 3-0 win over Estonia. Kenwright dismisses takeover talk “Search for investment continues” 12 Oct - Bill Kenwright has moved to dismiss media speculation suggesting that he and the Board of Directors are in talks with an un-named South African businessman regarding a potential takeover of the club. "I have said for years that I am constantly on the lookout for investment for Everton and that is the case. But I know absolutely nothing of this latest speculation,” he said in a statement on evertonfc.com. McFadden honoured by the Jocks Life-size museum photo of Paris goal 10 Oct - James McFadden's heroic exploits for Scotland in Paris last month have been permanently pictorialized in a life-size picture placed in the entry-way of the Scottish Football Museum at Hampden Park, Glasgow. “Scotland went to Paris to play against the world champions having not won there in 57 years, and this touch of genius decided a game in which we were the underdogs,” — James McBrearty, curator. Everton get Alkmaar & Nurnberg Draw for the Group Stages 9 Oct - In the Uefa Cup draw for the group stages, Everton have been drawn to play in Group A against teams from Greece, Germany, Russia, and Holland. The format includes two home games and two away games:
Quality edges it for Newcastle Newcastle United 3 - 2 Everton 7 Oct - Everton were edged out in an absorbing contest at St James' Park that was transformed by second-half substitutions. Although the Blues were much improved on recent displays in midfield, the Barcodes had the extra touch of class in the first half as evidenced by curling shot into the top corner by Nicky Butt that put the home side ahead at the break. Andy Johnson came on at half time and he had equalised within 8 minutes, a goal which shifted the balance of power in Everton's favour until Emre and Owen came on for Newcastle with 15 minutes left. The Turkish midfielder crashed home a 25 yarder in the 86th minute and picked out Owen amid slack marking with a free kick three mins after that. Arteta forced Given into palming into his own net in injury time but it was too late after a somewhat cruel twist to the tale. Match reports by Lyndon Lloyd and Paul Traill Newcastle United vs Everton Match Preview & Statistical Record 6 Oct - There's no let-up on the fixture calendar as Everton prepare for their fourth game in 11 days, and it's a tricky one at St James' Park where they haven't won for 7 years. Andy Johnson should be fit, adding to the options open to David Moyes as he seeks a fourth successive win in all competitions. Forum discussion | TV | Statistical Record Tension then jubilation in Kharkov FC Metalist Kharkiv 2 - 3 Everton (agg: 3-4) 4 Oct - Everton are through to the group phase of the Uefa Cup after breaking the tension of a do-or-die second leg in Kharkov by twice coming from behind to draw level and then winning the tie outright. Edmar broke clean through after 15 mins to make it 1-0 on the night but the Blues atoned for a shocking first half almost immediately after the restart when Lescott grabbed his 5th of the season. A few minutes later, though, Kharkiv reclaimed the lead when Mahdoufi slotted home before McFadden made it 3-3 on aggregate when he equalised again with a fabulous strike. The traveling fans were able to breathe a big sigh of relief three minutes from time, though, when sub Anichebe made sure of Everton's passage to the next stage. Player Ratings by Dutch Schaffaer FC Metalist Kharkiv vs Everton Uefa Cup Preview & European Statistics 3 Oct - Updated: David Moyes meets another stern European challenge head-on on Thursday night when he takes his team to the little-known environs of Kharkov in Ukraine for a do-or-die second leg with Metalist Kharkiv. Andy Johnson and Leon Osman travel with the squad and will undergo late fitness tests on groin complaints as the manager considers his options. KO is 9:45pm local time (7:45pm BST), five in the UK have live TV coverage but it doesn't look as though it'll be streamed by EvertonTV. Discuss it in the Forum Trains, Planes and Automobiles 1,500 expected in Kharkiv 2 Oct - As many as 1,500 intrepid Evertonians are expected to make the long and arduous trip to the City of Kharkov in the heart of the Ukraine for Everton's massive Uefa Cup 2nd-leg must-win game this week. Just getting there (and back!) is an expensive challenge for fans who will be mostly flying to various central European cities before travelling the rest of the way for many hours overland. Best of luck, lads! Moyes pleased with clean sheet Thoughts now turn to Europe 1 Oct - David Moyes expressed his pleasure at seeing Everton finally achieve a clean sheet in their first home win since the start of the season agianst Middlesbrough, ahead of a big week with the return leg against Metalist Kharkiv in Ukraine on Thursday. "We need to try and kick on and hopefully go into that game with a little bit of confidence." Johnson and Osman remain doubtful with groin strains. Improved Blues back to winning ways Everton 2 - 0 Middlesbrough 30 Sep - Everton secured their first victory in four games and their first clean sheet of the season thanks to a goal in each half and much-improved attacking play overall. Mikel Arteta and Tim Howard returned and the Blues went into an early lead when Joleon Lescott was able to pick his spot with a header following a 6th-minute corner. They had poor finishing by 'Boro to thank for their half-time lead — Boateng, O'Neill and Dang Cook in particular should have done better — but wrapped up the points with a nicely-worked goal that Steven Pienaar finished off by sliding the ball past Schwarzer after 59 minutes. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Everton v Middlesbrough Match Preview 29 Sep - Everton go into the Sunday 4pm Sky showpiece game riding high on the back of a great 3-0 win midweek at Sheffield Wednesday that has done wonders to rebuild confidence and get the boys back to winning ways. The visitors to Goodison Park are Middlesborough, and let's hope the Yak thinks he really has a point to prove... Howard and Arteta to start!!!Discuss it in the Forum Everton Treasures Secured Funding for France Collection 28 Sep - The long-term future of the David France collection has finally been assured after the charitable trust set up to preserve it as a heritage for all Evertonians received the news that it had successfully obtained Heritage Lottery Funding. Van der Meyde's real problems Month-long suspension over 28 Sep - Andy van der Meyde talks about his young daughter's serious health problems and what he and his partner have to cope with after six months of daily hospital visits. Van der Meyde confirms that he was suspeneded for a month after missing training in August but is now back with the first team squad, and looking for a chance to play again. McFadden brace sends Blues through Sheffield Wednesday 0 - 3 Everton 26 Sep - James McFadden scored twice and Yakubu rounded things off as Everton eased into the Fourth Round with a 3-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough. After a poor first half in which Stefan Wessels suffered a head wound in a collision with Francis Jeffers, the Blues stepped things up after the interval and McFadden put them ahead just before the hour mark. Two goals in the last 6 minutes sealed the deal, with Yakubu involved in the build-up for McFadden's second before scoring an 85th-minute third. Johnson Homesick? Spurs and Hammers sniffing around 24 Sep - This must be the lazy jurno story that never dies. Andrew Johnson is still having trouble settling on Merseyside, supposedly, and never likes to be too far from his roots, reportedly. So Spurs and West Ham would be interested in 'taking him home", allegedly... Same inadequacies all too evident Aston Villa 2 - 0 Everton 23 Sep - David Moyes rang the changes: Carsley, Yakubu and McFadden were benched; Pienaar, Jagielka and Anichebe in for a bright start from the Blues but they went behind at Villa Park when a poor defensive header set Carew up for the opener. Everton struggled for the rest of the first half, giving away possession cheaply and defending deep, and then gave Aston Villa a second killer goal after missing some good chances. Uefa Cup hangover? You bet. Match Musings from Andy Morden Aston Villa v Everton Guest Match Preview by Steve Sweeney 23 Sep - The dust of Thursday's Menatalist debacle has settled and it's back to the comparative normality of the Premier League with a trip to Villa Park for a 2pm kick-off this afternoon. With choices to make in team selection despite a long injury list, can anyone second-guess David Moyes an how he will tackle this game? Discuss it in this Forum thread Blues held on night of high drama Everton 1 - 1 FC Metalist Kharkiv 20 Sep - Metalist Kharkhiv finished with 9 men, Andy Johnson took three penalties but scored with the only one that he was forced to retake, and Everton were left ruing their own lack of quality and the inconsistencies of European refereeing. It was all looking good enough with 21 minutes to go as the Blues led through Joleon Lescott's 23rd-minute header and they were awarded a penalty for which Gancarczyk was sent off. But AJ saw his second kick saved and then, after sub Edmar had capitalised on space in the area to equalise and Anichebe was finally awarded another spot kick at the third attempt, with Badych also receiving a red card, Everton's no. 8 skied over with a minute to go. Moyes's men threw everything down the center hoping to force a winner on the night but couldn't make the breakthrough. Everton vs Metalist Kharkiv Match Preview 19 Sep - Everton's much-anticipated return to the European stage becomes a reality this Thursday evening with the visit to Goodison of Metalist Kharkiv of the Ukraine. Update: Thomas Gravesen, Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar will undergo late fitness tests, as will Andy Johnson — although The Sun claims that AJ is fighting fit and miffed at being axed (more mischief-making by the Red Tops?). The game is being televised on Channel 5 in the UK and online at EvertonTV. Discuss it in the Forum Watch Everton Live in the Uefa Cup First Leg v Metalist on Everton TV 18 Sep - Everton have announced that the home leg of their Uefa Cup First Round clash with Metalist Kharkiv will be broadcast LIVE over the Internet on Everton TV. Kick-off is at 8pm BST on Thursday. International fans and those who cannot make it to Goodison Park, can't receive Channel 5 and who are not regular subscribers can sign up for £4.99/month or £40/year. There for the taking? Everton 0 - 1 Manchester United 15 Sep - According to the pundits it was just the right time to play United who were without an away win but Everton failed to up their game and were beaten by a late headed goal by Vidic from a routine corner. It could and should have been different but the Blues never really got going after promising starts to both halves and just two efforts on target in the 90 minutes told its own story. Reports by Lyndon Lloyd and Paul Traill. Everton vs Manchester United Match Preview & Statistical Record 14 Sep - The first interruption to the season in the form of an international break out the way, Everton return to the business of the Premier League with what is a significant test of their strengths this term. Thomas Gravesen and Tim Howard are injury doubts for the Blues ahead of this noon kick off. [Updated TV] [Discuss it in the Forum] Revisiting the TW Forum 13 Sep - After the previous incarnation of the ToffeeWeb Forum abruptly disappeared, we've accepted an offer by Danny and Dylan over at GrandOldTeam.com to make their message board the official ToffeeWeb Forum. McFadden earns Scotland glory France 0 - 1 Scotland 12 Sep - Another fantastic opportunist goal from James McFadden has done the job for Scotland agian, this time his stunning long-range effort being the match-winning goal for the Scots at the Parc des Prince. Gravesen out with knee injury 12 Sep - Just when we thought things were looking up, Everton have been hit with the news that Thomas Gravesen will be out for at least two weeks following a knee injury, sustained in training. The blow means the Mad Dog will miss the next three vital games against Man Utd, Aston Villa and Metalist Kharkiv. Neville deserves cheers not jeers Henry Winter's tribute to Evertin captain 11 Sep - Much maligned in certain quarters — not least among England's Neanderthals — Phill Neville gets a rousing vote of appreciation from Henry Winter in the Telegraph. "Neville has played a considerable part in Everton's resurgence, partly because of his absolute commitment, an example to all." Tim Howard dislocates finger 10 Sep - Tim Howard was desperate to keep the score down as USA took on Brazil, and he did well, only letting in four goals and making plenty of saves. On one, he crashed a hand into the crossbar, dislocating a finger, but soldiered on with it bandaged up. Let's hope he's fit to play against Man Utd on Saturday (assuming he is allowed to... gentlemen's agreements nothwithstading!!) Kharkiv game on Channel Five 9 Sep - Channel Five have confirmed that they will be showing Everton's Uefa Cup 1st Round 1st leg match against Metalist Kharkiv on Thursday 20th September at Goodison Park. Kickoff for the match is at 20:00 and coverage begins at 19:30. Unfortunately, the Radio Times website have listed both Colin "Liverpool" Murray and John Barnes as part of the presenting team. [Thanks to Stuart Mitchell] McFadden rounds off Scots' win Stunning strike raises more questions 8 Sep - Everton's James McFadden rocketed home Scotland's third goal in a 3-1 win over Lithuania with a 25-yard screamer that puts them top of Euro 2008 qualifying Group B for the time being. This presents David Moyes with something of a poser regarding how best to utilize the enigmatic "Scottish Rooney" , given his erratic ability to turn on the style as exemplified by another excellent goal. What do you think? The Blue Correspondence A unique new Everton book 7 Sep - Publisher Neil Smith and author Billy Smith (The Smiths!?!) have joined forces to produce a brilliant concept in historic Everton books. This one traces that very first of Football League seasons — 1888-89 — through actual unedited newspaper articles from the Victorian era. If ya know yer history... Cahill questioned by police ...then released 6 Sep - The Mirror is reporting that Tim Cahill ("a 27-year-old man") was arrested by police on a "serious sexual assault charge", but was later released when his accuser withdrew her complaint. No other information is available apart from the fact that the father of three is believed to have "heavily protested his innocence over the matter". Everton FC have refused to be drawn on the matter. Lescott gets England call up Recognition for Blues defender 3 Sep - Everton defender Joleon Lescott will now join up with club colleagues Phil Neville and Andrew Johnson after being drafted into the full England squad for the forthcoming Euro 2008 qualifying matches against both Israel and Russia. Injury to Portsmouth's Sol Campbell paved the way for the versatile Lescott, who has scored twice already this season, to finally receive international recognition for his consistency over the past year in the blue shirt of Everton. Lescott header seals strong finish Bolton Wanderers 1 - 2 Everton 1 Sep - A Joleon Lescott header a minute from time secured all three points for Everton after profligacy in front of goal looked to have condemned the Blues to a second consecutive 1-1 draw. Yakubu made his debut and it didn't take long for the Nigerian to make the ultimate impact, rounding off a fantastic break to put Everton ahead after just 10 mins. Bolton assumed the ascendency and, after Alonso rattled the bar, were level 10 mins into the second half thanks to Anelka's brilliant strike. But some key substitutions and sustained pressure in the closing 20 minutes reaped rich rewards when, after some agonising misses and a nailed on penalty not given to AJ, Lescott powered home a Gravesen corner to send the traveling Blues wild. Deadline comes and goes... No Riquelme, Appiah or Mordic(!)..... 1 Sep - Don't ya just love Transfer Deadline Day? All the rumours and false hot stories flying around... hours of useless energy spent hunting down possible breaking news on t'internet. Well, it's gone midnight in the UK and no announcements from Everton despite the encampment of Sky journos in Goodison Road... NO MORE SIGNINGS! Five ain't bad for Moyesy... but there's still some softness in midfield! Bolton Wanderers vs Everton Match Preview 31 Aug - Everton emerge from the rigours of the final week of the transfer window with a trip to the Reebok Stadium to face Sammy Lee's unpredictable Bolton. While the dangerous Nicolas Anelka has committed his future to Wanderers, Yakubu and Andy Johnson start a new partnership up front for the Blues. Who apart from Arteta will be supplying the ammo — Mad Dog Gravesen? — remains to be seen. [TV] [Betting] Everton face Ukrainian challenge Blues face Metalist Kharkiv 31 Aug - Everton have been given a Ukrainian test in the First Round of this season's UEFA Cup. Drawn against Metalist Kharkiv, the first tie will be played at Goodison Park on September 20 with the return leg a fortnight later on October 4. Keith Wyness, in Monaco, said "There is no such thing as an easy draw in Europe. Ukraine is a well-known footballing nation but Everton are very focused on taking the club further in Europe this year. We hope to be in Europe more consistently." Another Transfer Deadline Approaches Climax to the silly season 31 Aug - Will the surprise loan acquisition of the fist-waving loon be the sum total of Everton's response to losing out on Manuel Fernandes? Not according to media speculation or this little teaser by David Moyes on the official site. Ghana's Stephen Appiah has emerged as the most widely-linked of David Moyes' rumoured targets but the Mail's suggestion of Juan Roman Riquelme on loan tops them all on the "far-fetched" scale. Another rollercoaster in store or just another lead balloon? Gravesen back at Goodison All other avenues exhausted? 30 Aug - Thomas Gravesen is an Everton player again, re-joining the Blues on a year-long loan from Celtic. The mercurial Dane left Goodison for the lofty heights of Real Madrid two years ago before moving on to Glasgow following a disappointing spell with the Galacticos. He is likely to wear the no. 10 jersey vacated by Simon Davies in January. Following Manuel Fernandes' volte-face on Sunday, David Moyes appears to be out of big-name alternatives but fans will be clinging to the hope that the real deal will arrive before midnight tomorrow... Yakubu Signs — It's Official! Work Permit appeal successful 29 Aug - Aiyegbeni Yakubu finally became an Everton player today after another long drawn-out transfer saga that was held up initially because his work permit was turned down. But today it was granted at appeal and The Yak now becomes Everton's new record signing at £11¼M. Fernandes signs for Valencia Portuguese star slips through the net 27 Aug - Manuel Fernandes is a Valencia player. Sky Sports News are showing pictures of him at the Mestalla with his new Valencia shirt, while the sound of stunned silence was all we heard from official channels at Everton after the bold promise that "Fernandes will sign within 24 hours". And their mouthpiece, the Liverpool Echo remained equally bemused... That was until a statement and attempted explanation which was posted on the club's official site this evening. Everton stunned by Fernandes Midfielder set to join Valencia 26 Aug - Everton, club and fans, have been stunned to the core by the defection of Manuel Fernandes to Valencia at the last minute. At Goodison for the Blackburn game yesterday, he flew off to Spain and agreed terms with the the Pimera Liga club for £10M (Everton had agreed to pay £6M). "Fernandes will sign within 24 hours" was the word last weekend but the move got held up as the Premier League threatened to clamp down on the third-party ownership malarky... Everton 1 - 1 Blackburn Rovers Disastrous start from the Blues 25 Aug - After a mixed start, Everton went behind to a soft goal from Santa Cruz after McCarthy hit the bar. Baines (on his full debut) then had to clear from right off the line as the Blues rocked shockingly. Moyes made some very early (for him!) changes to regain the initiative and Everton improved in the second half with McFadden finally scoring an excellent equaliser. Not enough to win it in the end, but a good recovery all the same. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd Club secures “Yes” vote Ballot results officially announced 24 Aug - A day after the outcome was leaked to Sky Sports News, Everton FC have officially announced the result of the ballot on the Kirkby Project. In the end 59.27% voted in favour of the proposed relocation to neighbouring Knowsley, with 40.73% voting "No". The limited margin of the result will no doubt spark debate over whether the Board has a sufficiently strong mandate to press ahead with plans to leave Goodison Park for a 50,000-seat stadium in Kirkby. Everton vs Blackburn Rovers Match Preview 24 Aug - Everton are back at Goodison this weekend for the tea-time Setanta game against Blackburn Rovers and they could have three new signings making debuts if everything comes together as expected tomorrow. Leighton Baines is expected to be fit and both Manuel Fernandes and Aiyegbeni Yakubu could complete transfers before the registration deadline. Yakubu's on his way Record fee seals the deal 22 Aug - Nigerian striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni is set to sign a deal bringing him to Everton. With Middlesbrough and Everton agreeing the deal, Yakubu will become Everton's record signing and should be available to make his Toffees debut against Blackburn on Saturday. No exact details on the fee at this time but it's believed he will arrive at Goodison Park for a fee in the region of £11m. New Signing: Stefan Wessels Must have at least four goalies! 21 Aug - The pressing need for goalkeeper cover (!) sees David Moyes sign 28-year-old Stefan Wessels from FC Cologne where he has been for the last four years. At least it gets the compliment of first-team goalies back up to four as Wessels joins the Iain Turner and John Ruddy in the queue behind by Tim Howard. Yakubu deal still alive? Everton remain 'confident' 21 Aug - The Yakubu deal is apparently not dead, as some sources claimed yesterday. But it does appear to have hit a bit of a snag. Did Everton really have an £11M bid accpeted, as was reported earlier? Did Boro raise the price to £12.5M? There's plenty of misinformation surrounding this deal. And then there is the question of what happened to Fernandes? When is his signing going to be confirmed by the Club? Joint report supports “loop” option 55,000 stadium possible at Scotland Rd 20 Aug - Bestway have revealed that a joint HOK Sport architectural and WSP engineering report states that it would be possible to build a 55,000-seat stadium at the Wallasey tunnel loop site. Head of Property, Malcolm Carter, said, “I am delighted with the findings of the report [which establishes] that a large stadium could be made to work at this location." LCC leader Warren Bradley called on Everton to end the exclusivity agreement with Knowsley and Tesco in order to discuss the proposal. Loop: 50,000-seat stadium will work HOK and WSP reports refute analyst's claims 20 Aug - Updated: Bestway have revealed that joint HOK Sport architectural and WSP engineering report states that it would be possible to build a 55,000-seat stadium at the Loop site. Head of Property, Malcolm Carter, said, “I am delighted with the findings of the report [which establishes] that a large stadium could be made to work at this location,has challenged the Steer Davies Gleave assessment published on evertonfc.com by insisting that a 50,000-seat stadium will work at the tunnel loop site. By restricting its analysis to the current loop dimensions, the assertion by Transport and Planning consultant Tim Spencer that discounted the "loop" site as a non-starter because it couldn't hold a stadium bigger than 35,000 clearly ignored the initial aerial Skempton renderings which propose an expanded footprint. Carter says that his company now has the HOK Sport architectural and WSP engineering reports to prove a stadium of the size required by Everton will work at the loop which they will look to release soon as part of their on-going feasibility study. Blues limitations exposed Reading 1 - 0 Everton 18 Aug - Riding high at the top of the league, Everton made one enforced change, with Joeseph Yobo injured and Nuno Valente stepping in. Reading played Everton at their own pressing game and duly got the reward just before half-time with Stephen Hunt, their best player, scoring well — a real wake-up call for the Blues. Everton improved greatly in the second half but could not penetrate a superbly disciplined and resolute Reading team, except for Johnson missing two sitters, and meekly sacrificed that all-too-brief reign at the top of the table. £11m agreed for Yakubu Striker to talk terms this weekend? 17 Aug - Nothing has been confirmed yet by Everton — and there's still some conflicting information doing the rounds — but press reports suggest that a record-breaking fee of £11m has been agreed with Middlesbrough for striker Yakubu Ayegbeni. The same report in the Telegraph suggests that the Nigerian is expected to discuss personal terms this weekend. Reading vs Everton Match Preview 17 Aug - Everton travel to Reading this weekend, the scene of one of their more comprehensive away wins last season, hoping to extend their 100% start to the new campaign. Joseph Yobo is perhaps the only doubt after Tuesday as Moyes no doubt hopes to name an unchanged team from that which mauled Tottenham in midweek. [TV] Bestway forward revealed Initial renderings now on view 16 Aug - The KEIOC group have released initial images of the Bestway / LCC proposal for a new relocated stadium at the Loop, off Scotland Road, in the Everton district of Liverpool. Architects have drawn up their initial rendering images with Bestway's Head of Property, Malcolm Carter saying, "We hope that fans can see that there is a reason for voting to keep Everton in Everton." The drawings include a tower that would help lend the site a landmark status and increase its visibility. The tower element will also provide a hotel, leisure facilities and other associated commercial uses. Fernandes inches closer to Goodison return Fee agreed with Benfica 16 Aug - Everton have agreed a £6M fee with Benfica for their stake in Manuel Fernandes, the Portuguese midfielder who became an instant Goodison favourite during his loan spell with the Blues earlier in the year. Fernandes is in England Tuesday to negotiate personal terms and have a medical. David Prentice also suggests that Everton have agreed terms with Global Sports Investment about the other 50% of the player's ownership and that the deal will be finalized by the end of the week. Fantastic Blues Top of the League Spurs 1 - 3 Everton 14 Aug - A fantastic first-half performance that just blew money-bags Spurs and their fancy squad away set the stage for a brilliant win as the Blues beautifully emulated last season's smash-and-grab performance at White Hart Lane, this time with Lescott, Osman and Stubbs grabbing the goals. [Match report] Following Wednesday's results, Everton stay top of the pile until the third round of matches this weekend. Tottenham Hotspur vs Everton Match Preview 14 Aug - Everton make a midweek trip to London this evening to take on Tottenham Hotspur hoping to repeat last season's superb 2-0 victory and compound Spurs' losing start to the new season. With Leighton Baines still out through injury, an unchanged line-up could be on the cards for the Blues. [TV] Fortune Favours The Brave Financial Analysis by Colin Fitz 13 Aug - Colin Fitz has put together an incredibly detailed financial analysis that blows a big hole in the Deal of the Century that underpins the Kirkby Project. This is not a brief analysis, so set aside some time to follow through as Colin develops his theme, and ultimately presents the numbers that underline that question we have all been wondering about: Is the Kirkby Project simply too good to be true. Lively Everton off to a great start Everton 2 - 1 Wigan Athletic 11 Aug - Everton started the season in the same vein as the last with a 2-1 home win. Even the personnel were familiar, with David Moyes deciding not to risk any of his new signings from the start. The Blues started confidently with Mikel Arteta in scintillating form but it was Leon Osman whose quick reactions broke the deadlock with a looping header. The second half was more pedestrian until Steven Pienaar came on and immediately fed Johnson whose great ball to Victor Anichebe was easily converted to double the advantage. Everton closed the game out, however, in a slightly uncomfortable finale after Wigan had carved out an easy goal for Antoine Sibierski with 11 minutes left. Match report Open Letter from Sir Terry Leahy Tesco Supremo explains the Kirkby Project 11 Aug - Tesco supremo Sir Terry Leahy has finally put a little meat on the bare bones of the Kirkby project, belatedly providing more meaningful numbers on the all-important financial side of the proposals in this Open Letter at the Official Everton website. We won't know if Sir Terry's clearer explanation of why Evertonians should support the project will sway many minds at this late stage, raising the question why something this authoritative was not published weeks ago. Everton vs Wigan Athletic Match Preview 10 Aug - The new season kicks off this weekend with Wigan Athletic the visitors to Goodison offering an opportunity to forget about the stadium debate for 90 minutes... but not, perhaps, the slender nature of the Blues' squad. David Moyes will have fewer options than he would like, particularly up front where he has just three strikers from which to choose. KO is 3pm. [TV] Everton for Everton Local Trust throw support behind “Loop” bid 9 Aug - Everton Development Trust (EDT) have thrown their public support behind proposals to bring Everton FC back to Everton ward, one of the most deprived areas of the UK. Citing Kingsway Park, the area inside the Tunnel Loop, as "an ideal new home for Liverpool’s oldest football club," the Trust believe a stadium for Everton in conjunction with regeneration and commercial development on adjoining land by Bestway would provide "a huge boost to the skills base and employment prospects of the local community." The Big Vote is under way Some get two ballot papers 8 Aug - Ballot papers for the Big Vote on relocating to Everton's stadium to Kirkby have been mailed out by the Electoral Reform Society to Everton season-ticket and shareholders. Some, including Dave Kelly, head of the KEIOC campaign, have received two ballot papers because he qualifies twice. "We are aware of the problem," says Ian Ross. Baines signs on the dotted line Defender finally secured in five-year deal 6 Aug - Everton have secured the signature of Leighton Baines when a protracted chase for the Merseyside-born defender finally ended with him agreeing personal terms and passed a medical. The deal that brings him from Wigan Athletic to Goodison is reported to be "in the region of £6m" and, as such, represents the third-highest fee the Blues have paid for a player in their history. Baines, who reputedly turned down big money at Newcastle in favour of Everton will wear the number 3 shirt. £4m Beattie joins Blades Striker ends frustrating spell with Everton 4 Aug - James Beattie has concluded his £4m move to Sheffield United after Bryan Robson persuaded the striker to join the Blades' bid to bounce straight back into the top flight. The 29 year-old was Everton's record signing when he joined in January 2005 for £6m from Southampton but endured a frustrating two and a half years at Goodison Park which were beset by injury and poor form. Cahill fears not yet confirmed Further scans to reveal true extent of injury 2 Aug - Everton have labeled reports that Tim Cahill will miss the first three months as "premature". It appeared to be confirmed that the Australian had fractured the same bone in his foot that he broke against Sheffield United last season, but Blues physio, Mick Rathbone, said: "He has suffered damage to the same area of the foot but it is miniscule in comparison to the previous injury. He is having further x-rays and scans over the weekend." ToffeeWeb Stadium Survey Results Your thoughts on the move debate 2 Aug - With ballot papers due to arrive on the doorsteps of those Evertonians eligible to vote on the club's future starting next week, ToffeeWeb can reveal the results of perhaps the most detailed canvass of supporter opinion on the move issue thus far. The results, which are based on a healthy 2,680+ responses — 1,170+ of whom said they were eligible voters — will give heart to both sides of what is an emotional and, at times, bitter debate. Everton braced for Cahill news Star to see specialist 1 Aug - Tim Cahill has been referred to a specialist to assess the condition of his foot amid fears he suffered a recurrence of the metatarsal fracture that sidelined him for the last third of last season. The Australian was withdrawn after an hour of last night's friendly with Werder Bremen after feeling pain in his foot following an awkward fall and had precautionary x-rays this morning. Everton 2 - 2 Werder Bremen 31 Jul - Everton upped the ante a little bit with some classy European opposition for their only home game in the pre-season fixture list. Word is they played well, but were unable to beat the "Sahne der Rhine", who finished a creditable 3rd in last season's Bundesliga. Goals from McFadden and Amderson (in the last minute) saved Everton's blushes. Andy "high hopes" van der Meyde didn't make the best account of himself by all... erm... accounts. KEIOC reveal plans Presentation at St. George's Hall 31 Jul - The Keep Everton In Our City group (KEIOC) have announced details of their forthcoming presentation, this Friday August 3rd. The presentation will be held at St. George's Hall, in the heart of the city, and all are welcome to attend between 10.00am and 5.00pm. Representatives of both Bestway and LCC will attend alongside the KEIOC committee, and both Trevor Skempton and Tom Hughes who will present their alternate stadium plans for all to see. Meanwhile, Everton have released a PDF of the brochure that will accompany the voting ballots. “The Loop” — It Can Be Done How to Keep Everton in the City 30 Jul - It's been derided as a red herring and a desperate, last-ditch bid by LCC leader, Warren Bradley, to save face but as fans prepare to make arguably the most important decision of their Everton-supporting lives, the "Tunnel Loop" off Scotland Road deserves to be explored as the potentially viable alternative to Kirkby so glaringly lacking on the upcoming ballot of fans. £4M Bid accepted for Beattie But he still may wait for Rovers 28 Jul - Everton last night accepted a £4M bid from Sheffield United for James Beattie. But the striker will wait to see if Blackburn Rovers can match that offer before deciding on a drop down to the Championship. Blades manager Bryan Robson wants the former Southampton man to spearhead his team’s attempts to gain promotion back to the Premier League at the first attempt. Kirkby residents react to stadium proposal 27 Jul - More than half (51%) of Kirkby residents support Everton's planned new stadium as part of a large-scale regeneration of the town center, that's according to an independent poll of 500 residents. In contrast, however, a similar number of people packed into a Kirkby church last night to express their opposition to Everton’s proposed relocation. The public meeting was organised by the Rev Tim Stratford, the rector of Kirkby, after a poll of residents leaving Knowsley council’s recent consultations into the scheme revealed that many were dissatisfied with the public consultation and that 75% opposed the new stadium. The All-Important Question Fans to vote on the Kirkby Project 26 Jul - Everton have released the exact text of the question that will be put to an estimated 38,000 supporters when voting begins early next month. Ballot papers will be sent out within the next week and they confirm that a "no" decision will be binding. The results of the vote are expected to be made known by the end of August. [Have you taken part in the stadium survey?] Ventura County 0 - 4 Everton Beattie Scored!!! 25 Jul - Everton played a friendly "schooling" match with lowly Ventura County Fusion at the Home Depot Center in LA yesterday afteroon, and beat their hosts 4-0. Beattie even scored! Other scorers included Victor Anichebe, Leon Osman, and newboy Steven Pienaar. About 100 people, including some intrepid Evertonians, managed to get a view of the game. Too Late to Cry EXCLUSIVE: How Everton missed the "Stanley Park" boat 24 Jul - Ever wondered about the full story behind Peter Johnson's ill-fated plans to relocate Everton to Kirkby Golf Course or beyond, about the true nature of EFC's enquiry into the possibility of building on Stanley Park and why Liverpool eventually got their way to do just that? Greg Murphy, once of Goodison For Ever-ton, provides a fascinating full account of the whole history of the Blues' stadium issue and outlines the sequence of events that led us to where we stand today. “Loop” site key to Blues remaining in Liverpool? UK retailer ready to offer Kirkby alternative 23 Jul - UK retailer Bestway believes that their site in Everton close to the city centre at the "Loop" junction off Scotland Road leading to the Wallasey Tunnel could hold the key to Everton remaining in Liverpool. Malcolm Carter, Head of Property for Bestway (Holdings Ltd) says that his firm has a design team in place and are in discussion with a stadium contractor about working up proposals, but stresses that a swift groundswell of local support will be crucial if this proposal is to be viable given the pending Kirkby Project ballot. The Stadium Survey Take part in the most in-depth ground-move poll so far 22 Jul - The ballot of the fans on the "Kirkby Project" is looming, Warren Bradley of LCC is making his play and the debate on Everton's future rages on. We've put together a survey in the hope of getting as many responses from online Blues as possible and establishing a better picture of where people stand on all aspects of the ground-move issue. It will take a just a few minutes of your time and could end being a useful gauge of opinion. Real Salt Lake 2 - 0 Everton First friendly defeat of the summer 21 Jul - Everton surrendered their unbeaten pre-season record during their run-out at Rice Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah, where their hosts, Real Salt Lake, won 2-0. James Beattie, Lee Carsley, Leon Osman and new-boy Phil Jagielka all made their first starts of the summer in this morning's game. David Moyes saw the result as a wake-up call. Read our special Match Report from James Rogers. “Everton will regret Kirkby move” Warren Bradley steps up rhetoric 21 Jul - LCC Leader Warren Bradley stepped up his campaign to keep Everton in Liverpool by suggesting that the club "will regret the day they sign up for the Kirkby deal." He is pushing the viability of sites in the city: one on the main council housing depot in Long Lane, Aintree; one at the new car holding compound next to the New Mersey Retail Park at Speke; redeveloping Goodison Park itself; and, his favourite, a site off Scotland Road in cooperation with Bestway Holdings. Everton secure Pienaar loan ...pending a work permit application 20 Jul - Everton have completed the acquisition of South African midfielder Steven Pienaar. The 25-year-old made his name at Ajax Amsterdam but a high-profile move to Borussia Dortmund — where he had the unenviable task of replacing Tomas Rosicsky — didn't work out as planned. Assuming he successfully completes the formality of a work permit application, he will bring his talent to the Premier League where the Blues have an option to sign him permanently next year. Pienaar on YouTube Stadium images released Board ups the ante in Kirkby debate 20 Jul - Everton have today released the first impressions of "The Kirkby Project", as they have titled it. Featuring a number of exterior shots of a distinctly Everton-branded stadium, the renderings were unveiled on the club's official site this morning. Apart from one aerial view, there were no images depicting in detail what the inside of the ground might look. The Board are hoping that these impressions will be enough to sway a large majority of fans to vote for a move out of Liverpool to Knowsley. Vogel deal hits complications Real Betis cutting up rough? 19 Jul - Updated: Everton were expected to unveil Johann Vogel as their second significant acquisition of the summer today but the contract status of the Swiss midfielder is more complicated than first thought. His current club Real Betis have not yet released the player and are now reportedly either holding out for a fee for the 30 year-old or balking at money owed to the player himself. Vogel had already agreed in principal to a two-year deal prior to flying in to undergo a medical. Meanwhile, Everton have yet to confirm the link to Steven Pienaar but press speculation suggests a nominal loan fee with an option to make the transfer permanent for £2m. Preston NE 1 - 1 Everton Vaughan suffers long-term injury 18 Jul - A strong Everton line-up took the field at Deepdale for the third pre-season friendly this evening but went 1-0 down to a soft goal from Whaley. Then, even worse, James Vaughan was stretchered off with a dislocated shoulder and is now expected to be sidelined for at least two months. Beattie came on (for another 'Big Chance'?) but Everton struggled through to half-time. A couple of changes in the second half and finally, near the end, Victor Anichebe made the breakthrough with a very nicely executed goal to level the score. Everton will “Own” new stadium 199-year lease 18 Jul - Everton will "own" the proposed new stadium under consideration within the municipal borough of Knowsley. Keith Wyness has announced it will be "owned" leasehold on a 199-year lease... which should be long enough for future custodians to come up with another replacement? Is that Plan B or all part of Plan A? But see this Mailbag Item for a more knowledgeable explanation... Deal of the century? Wyness looking out towards Kirkby 17 Jul - Everton CEO Keith Wyness, interviewed in the Daily Post states that Everton must move out to Kirkby in what he somehow claims to be "the deal of the century" (with 93 years left this current century). A lot of if's, but's and maybe's in the interview, with Nostradamus Wyness apparently in the know, boldly claiming that attendances will go down if we stay at Goodison Park. "If the move does not go ahead, there is no Plan B and there are fears Goodison Park will not be fit for purpose in 10 years." It's the end of the world! We're all doomed, Captain! [Some excellent comments from Phil McNulty on the BBC website.] Everton announce the Big Vote 33,000 ballot papers to go out 16 Jul - Keith Wyness has described the outline for the promised ballot of current season-ticket and shareholders on the issue of moving to Kirkby — although he has not divulged what the question(s) will be. But at least he has listened to the complaints and enfranchised memebers of Evertonia, as well as season-ticket holders for any of the past three seasons, giving the 33,000 estimate. The ballot will be by mail in August. [Have you voted in our poll?] N Ireland XI 0 - 2 Everton Everton get massive boost 14 Jul - Despite the predictions of doom and gloom, Everton made it two in one day with a masssive victory over the cream of Ulster... Okay, well that's a bit of an overstatement, but goals in the each half, one from James Vaughan and other from Reserves ex-Arsenal hot-shot Kieran Agard saw Everton though in a rather damp Coleraine test. Update: Match and trip report by Paul Traill Bury 0 - 1 Everton Jutkiewicz on target 14 Jul - Everton kicked off the pre-season displays with a second XI turning up at Gigg Lane, the only regulars being Hibbert, Stubbs and Anichebe. The game lacked any real excitement and even the goal from new boy Lukas Jutkiewicz was hardly momentous, his weak header looping past defenders and lamely beating the goalie. Still... a win is a WIN! Moyes blast at "irresponsible spending" Frustration for manager 13 Jul - Manager David Moyes has labelled the current spree of spending amongst other Premiership rivals as "irresponsible spending". Some might argue that that's life and has always been the way of the world in the dog eat dog world of football. Where have our Merseyside Millionaires gone, and is the transfer kitty pretty much empty? We'll know the answer to that by August 31. Meanwhile, it looks as though Manchester United's Kieran Richardson, rumoured to be Everton-bound will instead be heading for Sunderland. Tiny Tim to the rescue! Last-minute goal saves blushes 8 Jul - It looked very much like the rampant Socceroos would be seriously embarrassed by diminutive Oman in their opening Asian Cup game in Bangkok, after going behind in the 32nd minute. But Tim Cahill popped up in the last minute to blast the ball into the net, save many an Aussie blush, and do even more for his established hero status on the Big Island. Jagielka finally signs for Everton! First signing of the new season! 4 Jul - The long-running Phil Jagielka transfer saga finally ended this afternoon when the Sheffield United player completed personal terms and signed on the dotted line in a £4M deal that will bring him back to Everton, where he started his football as a youngster. He left when cuts were made at the Under-15 level 10 years ago, and has developed over time into a versatile defender who can play in a number of positions. Phil cited being in Europe, and playing under Moyes were big factors in his decision. Moyes ready for action? Transfer speculation building 3 Jul - The manager is back from holiday and the protracted deliberations by the FA on Sheffield United's future have now been concluded with confirmation of the Blades' relegation so expectation is building that Everton's first foray into the transfer market will be made with the £4m acquisition of Phil Jagielka this week. And reports in a variety of newspapers and Web outlets linking the Blues with Alan Smith, Kieran Richardson, and Jason Koumas are growing in number. AJ fit and ready Set to start pre-season training 1 Jul - The good news regading Andrew Johnson is that he is fully fit and ready for pre-season training to start on Monday — six weeks after having surgery to correct a bone problem in his ankle. Johnson played through much of the season with the problem, and it must have affected his playing ability. Everton will need him back to his best form as the new season starts! |
Snippets & RumoursJones joins Leyton Orient 30 Jun - 19 year-old goalkeeper Jamie Jones, released by Everton in May after failing to make the grade at Goodison, has signed for Leyton Orient. Toon dig their heels in over Round 30 Jun - Steve Round's move from St James Park to Goodison Park appears to have stalled because Newcastle United are demanding compensation for their current first-team coach... even though his contract expires tomorrow and they haven't offered him a new deal. Yobo's ankle injury needs rest 29 Jun - Joseph Yobo's decision to play all four of Nigeria's recent World Cup qualifiers with an ankle injury will likely not go down too well with David Moyes when he returns to pre-season training still suffering from the effects. Macca: It's Everton... just! 29 Jun - In an Observer interview, Sir Paul McCartney just about leaves the fence where matters Blue and red are concerned: "I support them both... [but] if it comes down to a derby match or a crunch or an FA Cup final between the two, I would have to support Everton." Ruleteros on City Talk tonight 28 Jun - John Keith will spend one hour this evening, between 6 and 7pm, on City Talk, talking to The Ruleteros Society, celebrating our Chilean counterparts' recent dramatic Championship title success. Will the two Everton sides ever come together on the pitch? Tune in! When the Cheering Stops 27 Jun - James Corbett, author of on Everton: The School of Science — one of the best books written about Everton — is looking for interviewees for his new book, When the Cheering Stops. Round given permission to speak to Everton 27 Jun - Newcastle United have given Everton permission to speak to their first team coach, Steve Round, about the vacant Assistant Manager's position at Goodison Park. Chelsea are also said to be interested as is Steve McLaren under whom Round worked in the England set-up. Wyness calls for fairer revenue split 26 Jun - Keith Wyness has called on Uefa to address the huge disparity between prize-money allocation in the Champions League and Uefa Cup competitions. Uefa's Director of Communications, William Gaillard, however, revealed that the power lies with the old G14 clubs when he said they will "try to convince them" that more even distribution of money is in their best interests. Hibbert keen to avoid surgery 26 Jun - Tony Hibbert is crossing his fingers that he won't have to undergo surgery on his knee after rupturing medial ligaments in the joint at Arsenal in May. He is doing light training right now until he can get the opinion of a specialist. Uefa Cup run netted just £400k 23 Jun - As if the disparity between the Champions League and Uefa's other club competition wasn't apparent enough, figures from European football's governing body show that Everton's 10-match run to the last 16 of the Uefa Cup garnered the club a mere £400k... £32.5M less than Manchester United earned for winning the CL. Bid on a Signed Arteta Photo 23 Jun - The newly revamped Grand Old Team forum, ToffeeWeb's official forum partner, are auctioning off a signed picture of Mikel Arteta with proceeds benefiting Cancer Research UK. Bent move ruled out 23 Jun - Everton have quashed media speculation that they have lodged a bid to sign Tottenham misfit, Darren Bent. Wessels heading back to Germany 21 Jun - Stefan Wessels is set to join German second division side Osnabruck after being released by Everton at the end this past season. Henry works for Everton... 21 Jun - No, not that one... Tony Henry, ex-Man City player. According to Matin Tyler's blog, he performs the "Frank Arnesen roll" for Everton (Uh?) and is Moyes's man at he Euros. [From Andy Lea] Nigerian Experience 19 Jun - Victor Anichebe talks about playing for Nigeria in the curent World Cup Qualifying series of international matches under way in Africa. Talking up the Blues 17 Jun - Aston Villa's Nigel Reo-Coker has some nice things to say about Everton's progress under David Moyes, and the challenge of breaking into the Sky 4. Yobo the goal machine 15 Jun - Joseph Yobo was on target again as Nigeria preserved their 100% start to their World Cup qualifying campaign. Joey's strike was enough to beat Equatorial Guinea in the Group 4 game. Blues plan Swiss training camp 13 Jun - Everton will spend the early part of pre-season at a training camp in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland and could play a friendly against FC Sion at the Stade de L’Espérance while they're out there, although this is yet to be confirmed. Petition calls for Kirkby examination 11 Jun - A petition calling on the Government to "call in" the Destination Kirkby project for examination has drawn 1,500 signatories thus far. If you feel strongly about the joint Tesco-Everton proposal, you can add your name by clicking here. Ramsey chooses Arsenal 10 Jun - It seems Aaron Ramsey will choose Arsenal over European Champions Manchester United and "Premier League giants" Everton. His decision was, according to sources, not an easy one and Goodison was, apparently, his second choice destination ahead of Old Trafford. Blues line up PSV friendly 9 Jun - Everton say that they are looking to arrange a friendly with Dutch giants, PSV Eindhoven, at Goodison Park on 9th August. The Blues have made home friendlies against top-class European opposition a regular curtain-raiser for the new season in recent years. South Africa win 7 Jun - Steven Pienaar played a significant role in South Africa's 4-1 defeat of Equatorial Guinea before coming off after 83 mins. Yobo squeezes in the winner 7 Jun - Joseph Yobo scrambled in a last-minute goal to hand Nigeria a second successive World Cup qualifying win as they beat Sierra Leone 1-0 away in Freetown on Saturday. Ruleteros keen on all-Everton friendly 5 Jun - Newly-crowned Champions of Chile, CD Everton, want to arrange a friendly with the club from which they took their grand old name some time at the end of the year. The Ruleteros are hoping to succeed where fans have failed in igniting sufficient interest from the powers-that-be at Goodison in time for CD Everton's centenary year celebrations. Fifa cap madness 5 Jun - Phil Jagielka's first cap was in doubt but now it has been confirmed after England used too many subs!!! Ratcliffe: Everton best for Ramsey 5 Jun - Former Everton and Wales captain, Kevin Ratcliffe, believes that the greater opportunity for first-team football that the Blues can offer makes Goodison Park the best option for Cardiff prodigy Aaron Ramsey. The 17 year-old must choose between the three clubs from whom bids have been accepted by the Bluebirds: Everton, Manchester United and Arsenal. Mailbag Discussion. Sefton object as well 5 Jun - Sefton Council also voted to lodge a formal objection to the retail development proposed in the Destination Kirkby project. More on this in the Daily Post LLC to lodge objection 4 Jun - After proclaiming the opposite just two days ago, David Bartlett reports in the Daily Post that Liverpool City Council’s planning committee have voted unanimously to object to the £400m retail and stadium scheme known as Destination Kirkby. More details in this Echo story. No Chang branding on junior kits 4 Jun - On the recommendation of the Portman Group and in accordance with their initiative to reduce underage drinking, Everton have announced that the Change name and logo will not feature on future junior kits. LCC unlikely to lodge objection 2 Jun - Based on the 30% reduction in retail space at Destination Kirky, the Daily Post report that Liverpool City Council is no longer likely to formally object to the Tesco's regeneration scheme. Jagielka debuts in England win 1 Jun - Phil Jagielka made his England debut this evening, coming on as a half-time substitute as England beat Trinidad and Tobago 3-0 in Port of Spain. Sharing: not an option 31 May - In the Liverpool Echo, Tony Barrett takes Cllr Warren Bradley to task about his 'dream' of a shared stadium: "Everton want their own stadium and Liverpool want theirs and the vast majority of both sets of fans support continued separatism, so sharing simply isn't an option." Pienaar injured in friendly 30 May - Steven Pienaar limped off injured from South Africa's 1-0 win over Swaziland in a Johnesburg friendly on Thursday. Pre-season '08: Back to the USA 30 May - Everton will stage part of their pre-season preparations in Chicago, Illinois this summer with two friendly dates against Major League Soccer clubs: Chicago Fire on 30th July and Colorado Rapids on 3rd August. Friendlies against Preston, Nottingham Forest and Cambridge United have also been announced. Club to launch new kit on 5 June 30 May - Everton will unveil the 2008/09 home kit on the Official website on Thursday 5th June. CD Everton game postponed 30 May - CD Everton’s second-leg final match with Colo Colo, scheduled for this Saturday, has been postponed until Monday or Tuesday of next week as Chile enters 3 days of national mourning due to the death of its national police chief, General Bernales, in a helicopter accident in Panama. [John Shearon] Deloitte Report on 2006-07 29 May - The state of English football finances has been under the scrutiny of Deloitte again, this time with an analysis of club accounts showing Everton 9th in the wages league based on the season before last, so it's a little out-dated. Decision expected shortly 28 May - Keith Wyness has spoken of the planning process that must run its course, and the risk that it could potentially derail Destination Kirkby, if the project gets called in by the government. Bradley restates his claims 27 May - Liverpool City Council leader, Warren Bradley claims he would work with Everton on redeveloping Goodison Park... if EFC made "a commitment". He has also talked to a couple of people about a shared stadium in the city. Inspired by a love of the Blues 26 May - A TW reader stumbled across the website of the Cleveland Cobras soccer club and noticed something vaguely familiar about their crest. Turns out, the founder of said team is an ex-pat Blue who modelled the crest after that of his beloved Everton. Howard joins calls for big spend 26 May - Tim Howard has added his voice to those at Everton calling on the Board to provide serious financial backing for David Moyes's squad-building plans this summer. Harvey's biggest regret 24 May - Colin Harvey's biggest regret was not winning a trophy as Everton manager, despite picking up where Howard Kendall left off after his brief spell of greatest Everton success in the 1980s. No imminent transfer business!!! 23 May - Buried in this glowing piece about Joleon Lescott is a worrying statement from Ian Doyle: "Though Everton continue to be linked with myriad transfer targets - the latest is Galatasary’s Arda Turan - the club are not expecting to do any imminent business." What do you think? More money from Rooney deal 22 May - With Manchester United completing the Premier and Champions League double, Everton will get a further £1.5M from the Rooney transfer deal, bringing the total to £27¼M. Downes joins Yeovil 21 May - Aidan Downes, one of the the Everton Academy youngsters released last week, will join Yeovil Town in July. Robbed, I tell you! 21 May - Many TW contributors have been tracking the Right Result table which has shown for a while that bad decisions don't always even out over a season, and now ex-referee Jeff Winter's "League of Injustice" adds fuel to the belief that Everton were pretty hard done by this past season. Both tables have the Blues finishing comfortably fourth. [Thanks to Tom Corcoran] Fined for more fan trouble 20 May - Everton have suffered a second fine — this time 10,000 Swiss Francs, imposed by Uefa for trouble caused by fans without tickets ahead of the 1st leg match against Fiorentina. Illegal Interference claim 19 May - The First4Kirkby party, who failed to win a seat in Knowsley Borough Council elections, have passed a dossier to police claiming that Tesco and Everton deliberately intervened in the political debate by circulating a DVD and a glossy leaflet promoting 'Destination Kirkby' in an attempt to subvert the democratic process. Reality TV winner to join Academy 16 May - 19 year-old hopeful, Jin Hui, will join Everton's Academy after being chosen from thousands of youngsters at trails for a Soccer Prince, a reality TV programme in China last year. More Kirkby consultations 16 May - Revised plans for Destination Kirkby, showing reduced retail space, are out for consultations with local authorities and others until 5 June. English coaches too insular 16 May - Joe Royle, the last English manager to lift the FA Cup, in 1995, shares his thoughts on home-grown managers ahead of Saturday's FA Cup Final that sees Everton old boy Davie Jones up against 'Appy 'Arry Redknapp. Gardner joins Goodison exodus 15 May - Anthony Gardner, signed on loan in January as cover following the departure of Alan Stubbs to Derby, will return to Tottenham this month after David Moyes elected not to make his move permanent. The defender leaves without having made a first-team appearance for the Blues. Zenit lift Uefa Cup 14 May - Zenit St Petersburg, who Everton beat in the group stages, lifted the Uefa Cup in Manchester after some gloriously positive attacking football finally defeated Walter Smith's classically dour Scottish negativity. Another year for Nuno 14 May - Everton have extendedd Nuno Valente's contract for another year to provide cover for the left-back position. Lescott best shot converter 14 May - Those pesky Opta stats show that the star Premier League player in converting shots to goals was not a striker but our own Joleon Lescott,, followed by our own ace, The Yak! Uefa Cup earnings 13 May - Estimates of Everton's income from their Uefa Cup campaign this season range for £500k to £3M. Moyes mulling over Fernandes 12 May - "Fernandes has been much improved, he passed the ball well at Arsenal and did the same again today (against Newcastle)," said the Everton manager. "Like last year, he's got better as time has gone on. We're going to assess his situation in the next week or so. I have got a few ideas which I'm thinking about." Gravesen & Wessels depart 11 May - David Moyes confirmed today that Tommy Gravesen will leave Everton and return to Celtic after being on loan for most of the season. Another player leaving is back-up goalie Stefan Wessels. Kenwright "seething" 11 May - Bill Kenwright was said to be “seething” over stories that there is uncertainty over Moyes’ future and will seek urgent talks with David Moyes today over claims that the club are dragging their heels over the manager’s new contract. Problems for Hibbert & Lescott 10 May - Joleon Lescott needs injections (steroids? HGH?) to "strengthen" the knee that lost him an entire season with Wolves in 2003-04, while Tony Hibbert could be out for three months with his bad knee after playing on with medial ligament damage in the 1-0 defeat to Arsenal last week. 10 years ago today 10 May - As Everton gear up for a last-day date with destiny of a different kind, it's a decade to the day since Gareth Farrelly's unexpected wonder-goal kept Everton in the top flight for the second time in four years. Gareth's in intensive care following illness at the moment — get well soon! Damn that internet! 9 May - It helps if you are threatening legal action that you get the right target. Everton's recent letter threatening legal action against vociferous opponents of Destination Kirkby, KEIOC, cited keioc.com — turns out to be the website of a Japanese orthodontist — and not keioc.net, their intended target... Ooops! Wyness: Moyes talks going well 8 May - Everton CEO, Keith Wyness, insists that talks with David Moyes regarding an extension to his current contract are going well and that, "there is absolutely no problem there at all." Finally, Arteta has surgery 7 May - After being told for months that Mikel Arteta did not need surgery to fix the problem that has dogged him since October, and reduced his performances to a pale shadow of what we know he can do... Guess What?! He's finally had surgery to fix his niggling stomach/groin muscle problem and will hopefully be fit for pre-season training in July Valente staying for another year 6 May - Nuno Valente, 33, is set to sign a new contract at Everton and will commit himself for a further year at the club. The pressure is off! 3 May - After Saturday's games, Everton need just a point from their last two matches — perhaps not even that — to secure 5th place in the Premier League and qualification for the Uefa Cup next season. Aston Villa, the biggest threat in the chasing pack, crashed 2-0 in a must-win game at home to Wigan. Portsmouth also lost 2-0 at Boro. Goodison lights up for Madeleine 3 May - Goodison Park will be floodlit for half an hour after 9:30pm this evening to mark the first anniversary of the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, the four year-old Blue of whom there is still no trace after she was apparently snatched from her bed in the Portuguese Algarve. Moyes settles Rooney libel case 2 May - David Moyes has apparently settled his libel action against Wayne Rooney and Harper Collins, the publisher of his autobiography which contained allegations that the Everton manager felt, "injured his professional and personal reputation and caused serious embarrassment and distress". Tickets: Wanted and For Sale 2 May - For those interested, there's been a flurry of requests for tickets to the Arsenal, Newcastle and Uefa Cup Final games on our Bulletin Board. AJ: Be a pest in the Box! 2 May - David Moyes is looking for Andy Johnson to ditch the "nice guy" routine and revert to being much more of a pest in the penalty box. What better place to do it than at Arsenal — since Wenger's diving jibe, AJ has resigned himself to being a corner-ball chaser and has not been awarded a single penalty. The Croke Park Parallel 30 Apr - KEIOC recently interviewed Peter McKenna, Stadium Director for Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland, about the decision to redevelop the stadium in a "landlocked", residential locale rather than a greenfield site as Everton plan to do in Kirkby. His answers return regularly to the benefits of staying in a thriving city and staying true to tradition and history. Downes to stay with Yeovil? 29 Apr - Everton Youth Academy striker, Aidan Downes, 19, is out of contract in the summer, and seems likely to convert his current loan spell at Yeovil into a permanent move. Carsley expected to stay 28 Apr - Lee Carsely is apparently keen to sign on for another year at Goodison Park after his current contract expires this summer. Blues fail to press home advantage 27 Apr - A draw against a resurgent Villa, who were coming off a run of results that had brought them to within touching distance of an Everton side for whom fifth place or better seemed a mere formality a couple of weeks ago, is a decent result, particularly when you factor in just how poor the Blues have been in recent weeks. It shouldn't disguise, however, a highly disappointing first-half display or the fact that, having led twice, Moyes's boys should have closed the game out and virtually assured Uefa Cup football for next season. Match report by Lyndon Lloyd... Anderson barely figured for Everton despite a protracted move and was an un-used substitute in last night's 0-0 draw with Tottenham. |
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