Award-winning presenter Gethin Jones and former world champion boxer Tony Bellew will lead a special post-match ceremony on Sunday as Everton’s Senior Men’s team play their final game at Goodison Park.
The event, titled End of an Era, will take place after Everton’s Premier League match against Southampton and is set to honour 133 years of history at one of English football’s most iconic stadiums.
Bellew, a lifelong Evertonian who famously won the WBC cruiserweight title at Goodison in 2016, said he’s bracing for an emotional day.
“It’s weird because a part of me keeps thinking about Everton Stadium, but a big part is sad because it’s the end at Goodison for our Men’s team,” he told evertonfc.com. “I’ll have to wait until Sunday but I imagine it’ll be emotional.
“I’ve spent my life at Goodison Park and my lifelong dream was lived out at Goodison Park. The Club has done everything possible to make it as enjoyable as possible on Sunday. As sad as it’ll be, I’m looking forward to hosting with Gethin. It’ll be a day to remember and I can’t wait to be part of it.”
Joining Bellew is Welsh broadcaster Gethin Jones, best known for his time on Blue Peter and more recently presenting national events such as the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations for the BBC.
“I was absolutely blown away to be asked to play a part,” said Jones. “Honestly, I was straight on with my mates on WhatsApp!
“It’s going to be some send-off come Sunday – emotional, for sure, with some incredible memories to reflect on.”
The post-match tribute will feature appearances from current players and Everton legends, along with live music and big-screen content celebrating Goodison’s legacy.
Bellew reflected on his own memories, from title glory to unforgettable football moments. “The greatest night of my whole career was at Goodison Park,” he said. “I dreamed of being able to play for Everton but I wasn’t good enough, so the closest thing was sticking a ring in the middle of the pitch!”
Jones, who fell in love with Everton during the trophy-laden 1980s, added: “It’s a proud history, unique, the oldest purpose-built football stadium in the world. It’s tough to move on but I think every Everton fan wants the Club to be winning trophies, competing at the very top.”
He urged fans staying after the game to make the most of the historic moment: “The pitch will become a stage – and the stage will be set to give the Grand Old Lady the send-off she deserves.”
