Everton is one of the grand old names of English football. Founder members of both the Football League (1888) and the Premier League (1992), Everton have the second-longest run in the top-flight of English football after Arsenal, with seven decades without a relegation – although they have come close.
I discuss Everton’s history with Rob Sawyer, author of Broken Dreams: Everton, the War and Goodison’s Lost Generation. and the club’s legacy in South America with Jimmy Milner from The Ruleteros Society, focussing on the friendship between Everton in England and their namesake in Chile, Everton de Viña del Mar.
In this episode, we cover:
Everton’s Origins: We discuss Everton’s founding in 1878 from St. Domingo Methodist Chapel in Liverpool, their early growth, and their establishment as a significant football club by the late 1800s.
Rivalry with Liverpool: We explore the historical schism in 1892 that led to the formation of Liverpool FC, originating from internal conflicts within Everton’s hierarchy.
Goodison Park History: We highlight Goodison Park’s significance as the first purpose-built football stadium in England, its historic architecture, and its role in Everton’s legacy.
New Stadium Transition: We examine Everton’s move to a new stadium at Liverpool docks, the plans for Goodison Park’s legacy, and the emotional impact on fans.
1930s Golden Era: Rob Sawyer details Everton’s success in the 1930s, including their league titles and FA Cup win, and the impact of World War II on the club and its players.
1980s Resurgence: We reflect on Everton’s successful period in the 1980s under Howard Kendall, including winning league titles and the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
Everton in Chile: Jimmy Milner shares the origins and history of Everton Viña del Mar in Chile, its connection to Everton’s 1909 South American tour, and the strong ties between the two clubs.
Future Hopes: We discuss hopes for the new Everton stadium, its potential atmosphere, and expectations for maintaining Everton’s legacy in the top flight of English football.
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