Mistakes, We've Made A Few

Alan Irvine and Moyesy have been putting together their grey matter, trying to work out how Everton finished up with their lowest top flight points tally last season. Alan admitted Moyesy and himself made some errors along the way, and they hope their little get together will put things right for next season.

Alan Irvine says: "There's been a lot of discussion between David and myself since the season finished and we've already had a few talks about things that we think might help for next season. There's been a lot of frank talking about what we feel we did well and what we feel we didn't do well. We've looked and we've thought about how differently we'd react if we were put in a certain situation again. We're obviously still a bit low and a bit raw at this particular stage, but the more that we have these discussions the more we can hopefully develop a plan of action that will give us a chance of improving next season." (27/05/04)

Everton Still In The Running

If the shite deal falls throw, and lets hope so, it has emerged that Everton, aswell as Man City and Fulham are the Premiership clubs that the Thai President is interested in throwing his cash at. Chief negotiator Pongsak Ruktapongpisal arrived in Merseyside at the weekend to discuss his Prime Minister's plans on buying into the shite. Whilst he is in the city he is expected to also meet officials from Everton, although the club is not making any official comment as yet. Sources close to the Thai Goverment, and within Goodison have though confirmed that the Blues are among three clubs being sought after as a fall back if their proposed deal to the shit 'eds fall's on its face.

Interestingly aswell, at the weekend was the appointment of Trevor Birch to the Chief Exec role. This remember is the same man who paved the way for Roman Abramovich's entrance into English football. Trevor, has he any long lost cousins that you know off !!!!!

Mr Thaksin's spokesman Jakrapob Penkair says: "These three clubs are on a longer list of clubs we have spoken to. Clubs have come to us with bids. Some clubs have come to us with a full package of proposals. I can confirm that we have been talking to several clubs at the moment." (24/05/04)

Danny To Sign For The Blues

American wonderkid Danny Szetela, has agreed to sign for Everton, when he returns from a South American Tournament with America's Under 17's. It is believed that Danny's love of 70's Cabaret act The Grumbleweeds, swung his decision to sign for The Blues above other Premiership contenders. Ray Hall, Everton's Academy Director, was part of the said group until he gave it all up to work with the Blues youngsters. It is believed though that Ray still does the odd turn with his old Cabaret partners.

Danny says: "I probably will sign with Everton when I get back from Argentina."

John Ellinger USA's Under 17's Coach says: "Danny possesses the whole package. Speed, strength, tough tackles, pinpoint passes, great field vision and instincts." (24/05/04)

New Deal Announced Soon

It appears that Everton have two high profile companies battling it out to become the clubs main sponsor for the 2004/05 season and beyond. Everton's head of Commercial Operations Andy Hosie has revealed whoever wins the bidding, will pay far in excess of the £1m paid by Keijan for the previous deal. Bluekipper.com's bid of free entrance to the BK Lounge at all home League games only, coupled with all of us taking turns washing the kit, on a weekly basis, was met with a sceptical response by Mr. Hosie. Whilst been escorted from his office, I upped our bid to washing all the Everton staff's cars aswell, but this seemed to cut no ice with Andy. We will be back, as we are currently plotting our next move!!!!!

Bluekipper's Mate Andy Hosie says: "Fortunately, because of the size of the Everton brand and the popularity of the English Premier League abroad, we are in a strong tion where we have two parties competing for the sponsorship. My job is to secure the most money possible for the club and if we need to take some time to do that without delaying the kit launch, I will. The main shirt sponsorship deal is a high proportion of the commercial revenue and you have to get it right. One of the companies is from the Far East and th e other is international." (23/05/04)

New Chief Exec

Bluekipper.com have it on good authority that ex Leeds and Chelsea Chief Executive Trevor Birch is to join Everton in the same capacity. Trevor who is a Merseyside lad, was a tasty amateur footballer, spending several seasons at Crosby club Marine. It seems times are a changing at Goodison, and with his high profile jobs before, Blue Bill may be looking to Trevor to bring some much needed mullah into the club, through his extensive contact list. Not much is known whether current Chief Exec Michael Dunford will be staying at the club or moving on to pastures new. (22/05/04)

Academy Moving On

At least Everton seem to be moving in the right direction on one front. Sir Philip Carter seems confident that the Blues will be training their fledgling youngsters in a state of the art Academy in Halewood in 2006. With the Academy at the moment comprising of a few portacabins, in Bootle, maybe a few more Wayne Rooneys may soon be coming through the ranks.

Sir Philip says: "Things are moving in the right direction. It's like most things in life when planning is required, it does take time. But as far as the new site is concerned, we've actually acquired that and we've acquired planning permission for it. As regards the development, we need to actually sell Bellefield.
Bellefield is a slightly different matter because, although it is almost a Greenfield site, as far as planning is concerned it is a sports section. The difficulties of actually transferring that into development of housing is fairly complex, but to cut a long story short, we have actually now submitted planning permission. Most of the difficulty to the current Bellefield site was going to be access.
However, we have now submitted planning permission and hopefully that will come through in July. The problem at the moment, although things sound fairly simple, is that the local and European elections are now taking place, which merely puts the whole process into a period of suspended animation. So, hopefully, it will be July, but at the latest, August. But when that comes through we can go out to tender, get all the appropriate people in and we'll have the whole thing done by 2006.
It is a tremendously exciting development and one that we're all looking forward to seeing completed." (18/05/04)

Bye Bye Everybody Bye Bye

Everton have released ten players. First team squad members Jeffers, Gemmill, Simonsen and Gerrard. Also on the way out are Schumacher, Symes, Garside, Brown and the two Moogan brothers Alan and Brian.

Good luck for the future to nine of the lads. Shut the door on the way out Franny.(17/05/04)

Thai Rumours Quashed

Everton have had to deny rumours that Thai President and shit head fan, was about to divert his vast personal fortune to the blue half of the city. With the shite not giving any definite answers to the Presidents financial proposal, rumours were rife that the President would make an audacious bid for the Blues. It seems several Premiership clubs have approached the Presidents people, but at present Everton are denying that they are one of them.

A Thai Spokesman says: "Some other clubs have already approached us, and more than one team. I hope there will be a conclusion at the end of this week." (17/05/04)

Danny Jets In

As reported by bluekipper.com, a few weeks ago, American wonder kid Danny Szetela, has jetted into Merseyside for a whistle stop tour of Everton's facilities. Danny who has flown over with his mum, has decided on meeting The Blues first, as he makes a decision on which club to join. Man City, Spurs and Inter Milan are also in for Danny, but the Blues seem at the moment to be his preferred choice. (29/04/04)

Pre Season Friendly

Everton have released one of the opponents and dates, for their warm up campaign for the 2004/05 Season. It looks like some of us will be heading back from the Costa's early, as Everton are to meet Sheffield Wednesday on Tuesday August 3rd, with a 7:45pm kick off. (21/04/04)

New Deal

Everton will start their 2004/05 campaign, with a link up to Sportswear giants JJB. The Wigan based firm will manufacture and distribute Everton merchandise until the contract expires in 2009. A new kit , made by Umbro is expected to be unveiled at the final home game of the season, against Bolton. The Wigan based sports giants were quick to dismiss rumours that a portion of pie and peas would be given with each new kit purchased. When approached by bluekipper.com, they told us to ' get off moi laaaand'.

Chief Exec Michael Dunford says: "This is a groundbreaking deal encompassing both manufacture and distribution of Everton merchandise. It will greatly improve the quality and profitability of the products, whilst also ensuring that we have distribution in JJB stores throughout the country." (14/04/04)

Sheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeedy

Everton leg end, and mate of bluekipper's, Kevin Sheedy is insisting that the current Everton midfield, must help the forwards out more. Sheeds who was part of one of the greatest quartet's in the Blues history, is saying that the goals have not been coming from the middle of the park. Sheeds who was reknowned for his work rate, from his spell at the club in the 80's, had one of the most feared left feet in the game.

Sheeds says: "The midfield has got to score more goals to help keep some of the pressure off the strikers. There are a lot of good strikers in the Everton squad but they cannot be expected to score all the goals. There need to be more goals from different areas. The key to doing that is getting more players into scoring positions. Our successful side in the 80s could score goals from anywhere. I got my fair share but there was also Trevor Steven who would score regularly from midfield and the centrebacks and full-backs would get involved as well."(08/04/04)

Super Six at Goodison

Glam rock group, The Darkness, them of the high pitched squeal due to extra tight spandex kecks, are to play at Goodison on 9th May 2004.
Just to be clear on this, it is not THE 'Darkness' - the redshite, who usually play at Goodison once a season, this is a Charity Event in which glam rockers are taking part . The National Soccer Six competition also includes the likes of Harvey from So Solid Crew (whoever they are?) and Ralf Little of Royle Family fame, money raised from the event will be donated to the Prince's Trust & Give a Child a Chance. Tickets are £10 & £6 and available by phoning 0151-256-5555. (08/04/04)

Best of The 80's

Everton goal scoring hero Andy Gray, has been championing the claims of the mighty Blue's side of the mid eighties, that swept all before them. In the week that has seen Arsenal set a new top flight unbeaten record, Gray was quick to point out to everyone, that he was part of the Everton set up, that went twenty eight games unbeaten, and ended with Everton winning the League Championship in 1985.

Andy says: "We did manage to go 28 games unbeaten in all competitions, and only ended that run when we had clinched the Championship, and had quite a few players on International duty. We did not really take those last few games seriously, and in hindsight it would have been nice to have gone on and maybe challenged for a share of the all time record. I certainly believe that Everton team which almost won the treble deserves far more credit than it ever received." (31/03/04)

Final Again

Congratulations go to the Everton Academy side who won their way through to the Liverpool Senior Cup Final last night. A 30 yard thunderbolt from skipper Brian Moogan in the first half was enough for the Blues to overcome a strong Southport side, at Haig Avenue. This is the third time in three years, that a Blues side has made it through to the final, were this year they will meet either Runcorn or the shite. (31/03/04)

Minutes Silence

Will fans who are attending today's match against Boro', please remember to respect the minutes silence before the game as we always impeccably do. The silence is in honour of Everton fan Bernard Murphy, who as we know lost his life when travelling to see his beloved Blues play last week.(27/03/04)

Symes To Crewe

Michael Symes, is the latest loan ranger to leave Everton in the pursuit of first team football. The highly rated six foot striker has joined Crewe in the First Division for a months period, and he goes straight into Crewe's squad for their clash with Notts Forest this weekend.(24/03/04)

Champions

Gary Ablett's Under 17's won the Academy Group A Title, with a thumping 3-0 victory against Crewe last night. Goals from Seargeant, Fowler, and Hopkins, sealed the crown for the Blues. The title is a regional one, and now Everton go on and face the winners of Coventry or Leicester in the next phase.

Alan Irvine says: "Winning the group is a tremendous achievement for the lads. You’ve got to go and do well all through the season in order to finish in top spot . It’s a great achievement and they should be absolutely delighted, now it’s important that they go and enjoy the next match and they perform well. By and large I was impressed with what I saw. I talk to Neil Dewsnip and Ray Hall a lot. They tell me how the boys are doing so although I haven’t been able to see the boys as much as I’d like to I’ve got a picture of how they’ve been doing. For some I was a little bit disappointed, because I know they can do better, and for others I thought they did very well." (23/03/04)

First Choice Duo Suspended

Everton duo, Wayne Rooney, and Big Dunc are definetely out of the Newcastle match on 3rd April at St James Park, due to suspension. The Duke will also miss the Good Friday clash against Spurs at Goodison a week later, and as for Dunc, I think his suspension will run till 2005. Moyesy will probably have to think of playing Franny Jeffers to partner The Rad, or the ever mobile Super Kev. After watching Chaddy bang another in for Millwall at the weekend, if I was Moyesy, I would be giving Dennis Wise a quick call in the near future. (23/03/04)

Pure Shite

Several Everton players have criticised the performance of Saturdays match referee Barry Knight. 'Sandro Pistone described him as a homer, but I personally take offence to this, as even Springfields finest would not have put in a performance like that, which culminated in Big Dunc's dismissal.

'Sandro says: "He was very sympathetic towards Leicester and we were convinced he was a homer."

Stubbsy fumed: "It was hard enough getting down to ten men, let alone finding we were up against 12. He was dreadful - right up there with the worst I've ever come across." (22/03/04)

Fan Tragically Killed

An Everton fan was tragically killed today, shortly before Everton's clash in Leicester, when some flying debris hit him, as a result of the gale force conditions in the Midlands today.

Ian Ross says: "We are still awaiting full details, and we have spoken to Merseyside Police, and it appears one of our supporters has tragically lost their life in a freak accident .Everybody at Everton Football Club expresses its deepest sympathy, to the family and friends of this man, at this hugely tragic time." Bluekipper.com would also like to express their sympathy to the family and friends of the deceased. (20/03/04)

New Sponsors

Everton may be forced to change their shirt sponsors for next season, as the weak American dollar plays havoc with their main sponsors. Keijan deal in the American currency, and because it is performing aswell as Everton this year, financially the deal is a poor one. Everton Exec Michael Dunford has said that the club are in talks with a few interested parties, and we can exclusively reveal to all our readers, that bluekipper.com is not one of them. We were asked to leave the premises after asking the club if they would consider letting us sponsor the shirts for next season, in exchange for Jogger and Lavington washing the kits at their own expense on a fortnightly basis.

Chief Exec Michael Dunford says : "We are still in dialogue with Kejian and a number of other interested parties with regard to our main sponsorship for next season."(18/03/04)

Boa Morte Charged Dropped

The FA have dropped the charge against that great friend of Everton FC's, Luis Boa Constrictor. The charge was relating to the alleged incident at Fulham's borrowed ground Loftus Road, back in January when he was supposed to have made offensive gestures to the Everton faithful.

FA Spokesman says: "In relation to the hearing of Fulham's Luis Boa Morte Fulham, charged with improper conduct for offensive gestures to Everton fans during the match at Loftus Road on 10th January 2004, the charge was not proven." (18/03/04)

Young Blues Released

Brian Moogan, Scott Brown an England Youth International, defenders Jack Flood and Joseph Jones and attackers Gavin Lynch and Robert Booth are having Premiership’s exit trials at Lilleshall over the next few days, after having been released from Everton.
Daniel Fox and Anthony Gerrard, have both been offered full-time contracts

Academy Technical Manager Neil Dewsnip says: "Although they have just come short at our club, they are interesting a large number of clubs. The exit trials will increase that interest hopefully. So with a bit of luck the boys will get another opportunity."(17/03/04)

Trip Cancelled Again

Everton's trip to China has been postponed for the second time in the last twelve months. Everton were due to fly out at the end of the season, were three games had been planned, but this comes at the start of the Chinese season. Everton do intend to honour their commitment to playing in China, so once again watch this space.

Chief Exec Michael Dunford says: "Again we’ve hit a brick wall in as much as David Moyes would want to take the team away immediately after the conclusion of the season and that’s understandable because of the Euro Championships that follow in the following month. But as it would happen the opening games of the new Chinese Premier League correspond with the original dates that we were indicating we would be available ourselves to go out to China. Unfortunately therefore at this moment in time we’re not in any position to fix the three fixtures we wanted with the local teams because their Premiership season is starting. Obviously I can understand that that will take priority in their calendar. We still have a very close association with China and we still hope to fulfil our obligations to go out there some time during the close season or more likely I would have thought on a blank weekend next season when there’s an international date." (16/03/04)

There's Always One

Not content with the three points gained against relegation fodder Portsmouth on Saturday, one or two mindless bell ends decided to brick the away team bus, as it left Goodison for the airport after Saturdays match. Why oh why do these pricks have to drag the great name of our fantastic club through the gutter, and thankfully it is as I said, one or two mindless knob 'eds, who are at the bottom of it. Let's root these tossers out, as they are the minority.

Harry Redknapp says: "They chucked two house bricks through the windows. One was round the back and one the small side window. It was lucky that the driver didn't crash, and even luckier that no-one was hurt, because obviously people were sitting near where they smashed. Fortunately it was reinforced glass which just shattered. As soon as we set off, though, both windows came out. It could have killed someone because they were thrown with such force. I mean thanks very much boys. There was just no need for it, because nothing in the match had happened to spark a reaction like that." (15/03/04)

Thumbs Up For The Blues

Everton have faired favourably in this seasons FA Premier League's fans survey. Although by some not considered fair, Everton's ticketing policy was given the thumbs up in the report, which was amassed by fans whether they are season ticket holders or not. The report covered the whole match day experience, including corporate hospitality like what I go in, coz I'm dead posh like, and also where the likes of you riff raff sit.

Chief Exec Michael Dunford says: "We’re only open for business for, at the best, probably 25 or 26 times a year so it’s important that the customers who come along, the supporters, enjoy the experience. It’s up to us if they’re spending money in the club Megastore, whether they’re spending money in the concourses on catering, hospitality, all those areas we have to concentrate on because they’re all income generating areas and we have to give good value for money.

On Ticketing Policy Mikey says: "You’re often in a no-win situation when it comes to ticketing. We’ve averaged gates this season, at home, of over 38,500 which is incredibly good. We enjoy 28,000 season ticket holders so that gives us a good start, but when it comes to allocating tickets for home and away games I think we’ve got a very fair system. You cannot please everybody all of the time and if you try and do that it’s a recipe for disaster but I think we have a very fair policy. That is reflected through the supporter groups who are canvassed throughout the survey and we come out very highly rated for that which is pleasing, not only to myself but for the Box Office staff who sometimes come up for unfair criticism but only on the basis that it’s supply and demand. We get 3,000 tickets for most away games and allocating them to 28,000 season ticket holders is not always easy. High profile cup games as well are a difficult task but generally we come out very well from that and the ticket office staff are to be applauded for that." (11/03/04)

Non Sale or Return

Everton have received an extra 1100 tickets for the Leicester game on 20th March. 2500 tickets have already been sold.

Everton secretary David Harrison says:"These tickets have been taken from Leicester on a non-sale or return basis. So it is imperative that the second allocation is sold in full. We are also urging our supporters, who wish to travel to the Walkers Stadium to support the team, to purchase their ticket as quickly as possible."(09/03/04)

Top Ten Finish

Everton great Graeme Sharp insists that three points this weekend against Pompey, will stave off the threat of relegation for this season. More than that, Sharpy believes that a top ten finish is not beyond us, and life will also be found on the planet Mars, before the year is out.

Good Mate of Bluekipper's and Everton Legend Graeme Sharp says: "I think it’s amazing what a couple of wins do for you. All of a sudden we take on Portsmouth on Saturday and we’ll be looking to get three points, it will be a difficult game, don’t get me wrong, but a win for us pushes them down and we can start looking at the higher reaches of the table rather than looking below us. It’s important that we start winning our home games and it’s amazing what a win does. The expectations from the supporters rise. If they see a result against Portsmouth then it’s two wins on the trot, something we haven’t managed to do much this season, if at all. The players will look at it now and think ‘hold on a minute, we can get in the top 10’. I’ve always said since the beginning of the season that top 10 would be a good finishing position for us." (08/03/04)

Far East Success

Everton's Academy Director, and part time Grumbleweed Ray Hall, has hailed his recent scouting tour to China a huge success. Two potential players have been highlighted by Ray and his team, and will be joining the Academy for the start of next season. After the success of the jolly abroad, Ray has informed his bosses at Goodison, that there is some talent to follow up in Bali, Mauritius, Bondi Beach, Florida, and Acapulco. Ray said he would be more than happy to visit the destinations on behalf of the club.

Ray says: "The trip was extremely worthwhile. My brief was to go over there and look at the standard of young players in Beijing, Liaoning and Cheng Du. It was my job to identify a couple of Chinese players and invite them over to our Academy, providing that the legislation can be put into place. That’s been done. There are two strikers that will be coming over here in the summer and both are Chinese internationals in their age group. Two other schoolboy strikers from Cheng Du will be coming over here for a few months, but that’s really a cultural exchange to build up a relationship with the Academy in China. Providing everything goes well and we can get the paperwork in order, we’ll look forward to welcoming these players to Merseyside. Also from what I’ve seen, Everton is massive in China and I didn’t understand just how much of a superstar Li Tie is in his homeland. Chinese fans love the Premiership and they are very interested in our progress because they are able to watch all of our games on television. Our impact over there is working, everyone is interested in Everton and what everything is like over here. Although we’re many miles away, the club means a lot to them." (07/03/04)

Smith Appointed At United

Ex Everton boss Walter Smith, has joined Champions Manchester United as Assistant Manager, till the end of the season. The appointment which will bring together two of the games more sensitive characters will start immediately. The position was only offered to Smith, if Archie Knox's baseball bat could accompany Smith in his new role. Anyway who said nepotism was dead.

Walter says: "The chance to come to Manchester United is something I couldn't turn down. I have huge admiration for what Sir Alex has achieved at United and I'm excited to be part of it." (03/03/04)

Alex Ferguson says: "I am delighted that Walter has accepted the chance to join United. There are few people in the game with his experience, knowledge and technical ability. His talent and background will be major assets at such a critical time of the season." (03/03/04)

Off to Dublin

After the much needed win against Villa on Saturday, Moyesy has taken most of the lads over to Dublin and having checked it out we can confirm that it is not for any of the squad's stag doo!
There is no fixture this weekend, so Moyesy has lined up a friendly tomorrow night (Tuesday) against Bray Wanderers, who are in the First Division in the Republic of Ireland league. He hopes to give both Richard Wright & Davy Weir run outs and sees this friendly as a good opportunity.
It is also an opportunity for Jay and all the other Irish Blues to get down to The Carlisle Grounds at 7.30 to cheer the lads on.(01/03/2004)

Lets Defend Lads

Derek Mountfield who was a member of the great 80's side that swept everything before them, is telling our defenders to do what they should be doing , which is defending. He also believes although it will be a close call, his beloved Blues will not go down, but I remember a ship once that was called the Unsinkable, and ask Leonardo what happened to him.

Mounty says: "I’ve got this thing about defenders in general. In the last five or six years of the Premiership we’ve found that defenders are trying to be too much like footballers. When I was a player we were told first and foremost to defend if you get the chance to play football, then play football. At the moment you’re seeing defenders who are trying to be clever on the ball and trying to do drag backs and step-overs. I think a defenders job is to clear the ball, get it away, and then if they do get a chance to play some football then do it then."
Mounty on Relegation Fears: "I wouldn’t push the panic button just yet. Last season was a fantastic season for us but unfortunately this season we haven’t quite hit the heights that people expected us to hit. We’ve been disappointing at times but we’ve got the nucleus of a good side here. We’ve just got to get gelling together. There have been times when we’ve looked a little but like we don’t know each other. We’ve made schoolboy errors, given the ball away in the wrong places and we have missed an awful lot of chances in front of goal. If you don’t take your chances you’re never going to score goals, which then puts more pressure on the back four. The club will survive this season, I’m sure of it, but it’s going to be a scary one again. We’ve had too many scares in recent years but I’m sure David Moyes and the backroom staff are well into the players, telling them to do this and that."(27/02/04)

Going Up

Everton Chief Executive is warning fans that prices are probably going to rise for next season. Despite the club not performing aswell as last season, Evertonians are warned that they must be prepared to pay more to watch their beloved Blues next season, hopefully in the Premier League. After telling my missus of the projected rise, she is obviously sympathetic to our plight. We have decided to cut back on the weekly shop, and cut down on the kid's treats, so our over worked hero's can maintain their frugal life styles. Well fuck it, I am frantically looking around for some feathers so I can spit them out. Start performing, and we might consider coming to watch you next season.

Chief Exec Michael Dunford says: "Gate revenue has to increase. I believe we have always worked as hard as any other club to keep prices down here. Our average season ticket prices are way down among the lowest in the Premier League. We do exceptionally well on season ticket sales. The support we get is quite incredible, but of our 28,000 season ticket holders, 25 per cent are concessionary - either senior citizen or juveniles - while the average season ticket holder at Everton currently enjoys a 24 per cent discount on individual match prices. Our prices are still relatively low compared to a number of other clubs. That's going to be addressed by the board. There has to be some form of increase both in match prices and season ticket prices. At the end of the day, though, what really matters is how much money you get from television and what position you finish in the league. A good cup run also obviously helps. Remember, each league position wins us in excess of half a million pounds a place and every televised live Sky game brings us in excess of £600,000. Really they are the foundations on what you build your financial projections on . . . and that is so volatile."(26/02/04)

Ray In China

Everton's Academy Manager Ray Hall has arrived in China, on a whistle top tour to see the best young talent that China has to offer. Since signing Li Tie a few seasons ago, Everton as a brand has grown in the Far East. Ray was allowed to go to China, after the management at his other job, said it was OK, as The Grumbleweeds have no immediate engagements to honour.

Ray says: "I’ve only just arrived here, but it’s been very interesting so far. I met up with Li Tie’s agent, Tony Xu, who took me on a whistle-stop tour of Beijing and then we discussed the plans for the week. The tour of the city was a real eye-opener. When we went to Tiananmen Square, I saw two people wearing Everton shirts, so it does seem that we are popular in China and the message is getting across over here. Apparently, they showed the 3-3 draw with Southampton live on Saturday, so the Chinese people who I’ve spoken to were well versed as to the performance of the first-team, which was great. But while today has been entertaining and enjoyable, the real work starts tomorrow. It will be a difficult job, but they have already produced a shortlist for me. Apparently, I’ll be seeing the best that Chinese football has to offer. We’re looking to bring a minimum of two boys in, so it’s a case of watch this space, really." (25/02/04)

Police to Visit United

After a huge number of complaints following United's late winner at Goodison the other week, Merseyside Police after liaising with Everton officials have decided that they need to interview some of the United players concerned in the incident. Merseyside Police will be contacting United players and officials in the forthcoming days to organise interviews, and a huge number of officers have volunteered for the task, some asking if they can take their kids along aswell. Police spokesman Gordon Sumner was unavailable for comment today, as he was busy writing a few new tracks for his forthcoming solo album.

Police Spokesman Sting says: "On Monday, February 23, 2004, senior Merseyside Police officers and senior Everton Football Club officials met to discuss complaints received from supporters following the recent Premiership fixture between Everton and Manchester United at Goodison Park. Having had the opportunity to study all available evidence and collate information from supporters, police officers and stewards who were on duty, Merseyside Police will be seeking to meet directly with the team management at Manchester United FC to discuss the conduct of some of their players on the day of the match."(24/02/04)

Inter Toto Snub, UEFA Shell Shocked

Everton have decided not try to gain entry to this seasons Inter Toto Cup, on the basis that they think it is a silly name for a competition. Everton had not realised that they actually have to finish in the upper half of the table aswell, which might cause us a problem. Uefa were shell shocked at the news went told today, and they believed it to be snub to the mastermind of the tournament Albert Inter Toto, who is the Director for Mediocre Clubs in Europe.

Michael Dunford says: "The manager simply feels the timing and structure of the tournament does not suit his plans for our pre-season preparations." (20/02/04)

Sold Out Again

Everton's amazing travelling army have sold another away game out. This weekend's away clash at Southampton has officially sold out with 2500 tickets being snapped up. With this amazing away support it is about time, the team started to repay the fan's with some away points, as only one victory on the road at Pompey has cheered up the long trips home.(19/02/04)

Tommy Eglington

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Tommy Eglington has died at the age of 80. Eglington arrived on Merseyside from Shamrock Rovers in 1946, and went on to make 428 appearances for the Blues, scoring 82 goals. His goal scoring feat was remarkable, as Tommy never played up front, but was described by some as a tricky left winger. Along with other Irish stars of their day who played for the Blues, Tommy gave Everton a high profile over the Irish Sea, and boat loads of fans used to make the round trip to see the mighty Blues perform. His funeral will be held on Friday in Ireland, and bluekipper.com send their condolences to Tommy's family. (19/02/04)

We'll Be OK

Everton hard man, and ex dog of war Joe Parky believes Moyesy's current squad is good enough, not to be drawn into the relegation scrap. Parky points out that easier matches than what we have recently experienced lie ahead of us.

Parky says: "You've got to go into the games realising their importance. You've got to be looking up the table as well as fully realising the prospect of relegation. As long as they realise that, then they've just got to go out there and show the passion, desire and determination to get the club and themselves out of the position they're in. We've played all the top teams and now we're playing Southampton, Villa, Portsmouth and Leicester. No disrespect to those sides, but they're not as tough a proposition as the teams we've already played. But we've got to be careful, because they will be fighting for better league positions. You go into every game wanting to win them, but you're expected to beat teams like Portsmouth and Leicester and those are the games that we have to get results from. The end of the season is approaching quickly and we've got to get points in the bag. Hopefully, we'll start winning a few more games, but I also think there are a lot more worse teams in the league than us who are already down there at the moment. That could work for us. Confidence plays a major part when you're desperate for points. You play better with confidence and it tends to evaporate when things aren't going your way. When that happens that's when you need to be strong and show character to have no fear in the games and give your best."(16/02/04)

Chuckle Speaks, No One Listens

Man United and England, all time, all time great, Gary Chuckle has defended his team mates behavior after their winning goal on Saturday. Chuckle himself, who has never ever courted controversy, and at no time ever said that he hated Scousers, and at no time tried to lead an England walkout, after his mate missed a simple drug's test, is obviously one to listen to. Fuck off back to the stone, you crawled out of arse hole.

Gary Chuckle says: "It's an over-reaction. We scored a goal in the last minute to win 4-3 so what do they want us to do, just walk back and say 'good goal boys'. Of course we are going to celebrate. It's as simple as that." (10/02/04)

Fan's Complain

Merseyside Police have received hundreds of complaints relating to Ronaldo's antics after United's winning goal yesterday. All complaints will be looked into, and if enough concrete evidence is found, a dossier will be sent onto the FA for their attention.

Everton's Ian Ross says: "Everton fans have complained to the club about the behaviour of the United players as they celebrated the winner and the police are aware of this." (08/02/04)

An FA spokesman says: "Nothing has as yet been brought to our attention although, if it is, then we would of course look into it." (08/02/04)

Rezzie Change

The Rezzies have now arranged their postponed home game against Sunderland, which was due to be played late last year. The Game will now be played at Haig Avenue, on Tuesday 30th April with a 7:00pm kick off.

Munich Remembered

In the game against United today, both teams will be wearing black arm bands as a mark of respect, to those who died in The Munich Air Disaster in the February of 1958. Eight United players were tragically killed when their plane crashed on take off, after the team were returning from a European tie against Red Star Belgrade. At the time of the accident United where the reigning League Champions, and one of the greatest sides of their generation. (07/02/04)

Talk Sport Superstar At Goodison

For listeners of Talk Sports morning talk show, some of you may be aware of one of the presenters Mike Parry is an avid Blue, even if he was born in Chester. Parry who does not miss a trick to give his beloved Blues a mention on air, infuriates his co host, ex Manchester United, and Ipswich star Alan Brazil no end. Well tomorrow, the Ginger Whinger, as he is affectionately known by, will be on hand to take part in a charity penalty prize competition at Goodison during the half time interval. Bluekipper.com who are avid listeners to his morning show, (well I am anyway), will not condone any chants made towards him like ' You Fat Bastard', or 'Who Ate All The Pies'. Further more, Bluekipper.com do not want any part in such chants like 'Whose The Fat Arse With The Beard'. You have been warned.(06/02/04)

Sold Out Again

Everton have yet again sold out a league fixture, days before the game kicks off. OK so it is The Mancs visiting, but with an average home gate this season of 38,779, it is well above such teams as Arsenal, Plymouth and Leigh RMI. (06/02/04)

Head Of Corporate Affairs Ian Ross says: "Selling out 24 hours before kick-off simply shows the remarkable level of support that the club has. Even though there has been a busy Christmas period the fans still manage to come. It really is magnificent and long may it continue." (06/02/04)

Live TV ?

If Everton are succesful in their bid to reach the FA Cup fifth round tonight, the BBC will show the game live on Saturday 14th February against The Hammers, with a 5:35pm Kick Off. You know what that means, that half the crowd will be in their Sunday best, as Flares will be beckoning after the game. (04/02/04)

Take It Easy

Fulham boss Chris Coleman has called for calm ahead of tonights Cup Replay in London. Whatever has gone on in the past, all we want to do is beat them and progress in the Cup, and wouldn't it be nice if the reports were of a great footy game, and not of any trouble coming from the crowd. Let's not boo you know who, let's be bigger than that, as he is the one making the rod for his own back, so let him dig his own hole. C'mon lads lets behave ourselves out there tonight, and make the name of Everton FC one to be proud of.

Chris Coleman says: "There are a few dodgy tackles in every game but what's to be gained by anything happening in the Everton match? We don't want to see a 15 or 16-man mass brawl with handbags flying everywhere. It's not what we want and its not what Everton want and I'm sure of that. I hope it doesn't turn into a mass brawl and I'm sure it won't. I'll make sure my players are professional and will go about their jobs in the correct manner, and I'm sure David Moyes will do the same with his players. It's a football match and not a fight. We will be trying to play football as will Everton, and let's hope its played in the correct manner." (04/02/04)

Congratulations Alex

A packed Moat House Hotel, stood as one last night to celebrate a true Everton legend. Alex ' The Golden Vision' Young was awarded with The Dixie Dean Memorial Trophy, at The annual Echo Awards. The word legend is used very loosely today, but where Alex Young is involved, no greater tribute can be afforded. The Golden Vision, who's goal return of 83 goals helped his beloved Blues to a League Title, and an FA Cup in his career at Everton, was presented with the award by current manager Davey Moyes. (03/02/04)

What's Going On Fulham

Fulham are increasingly trying the patience of the top brass at the FA, as the deadline set for the serious allegations regarding Dunc's alleged abuse has passed by. Fulham should have submitted their case to Soho Square at close of play on Monday evening, but as that deadline has now passed, the FA are seeking clarification. They are also slightly pissed off, that Boa Morte decided to run to the media first, before going through the correct channels to report such serious allegations.

An FA Spokesman says: "The FA believes these are serious allegations which require urgent clarification. Additionally, the player needs to explain exactly how such comments appeared in the media before being brought to The FA’s attention. (03/02/04)

Duncs Agent Kevin Dooley says: "We refute them completely. There is no truth in them whatsoever." (03/02/04)

Sold Out

Everton not surprisingly have sold out their entire allocation for tomorrow night's crucial FA Cup replay at Fulham. Myself and a few of the kipper boys will be travelling down in chartered jet, courtesy of Mr Kenwright, and the bill will be on the way to your office, once we have received our invoice off the plane company. Once again many thanks Bill. Let's remember tomorrow night, we are there to support Everton, so lets get behind Moyesy and the boys, and make it a night to remember for all the right reasons. See you there.

Michael Dunford says: "The response has been astonishing, not that anyone at the Club has been surprised. We took all the tickets we could get and they were snapped up well before the weekend. We even asked Fulham for an additional allocation but because of segregation issues they could only let us have an extra 40 tickets. This really is an extraordinary number to be taking to London for a midweek fixture. This simply demonstrates the loyalty and total dedication of a support which has few equals in British football. When Bill made his offer to pay supporters' coach travel he said he wanted as many Evertonians as possible to be at Loftus Road to shout on David Moyes' team, Bill has got what he asked for and we are all delighted." (03/02/04)

No Complaint, Yet

Fulham boss Chris Coleman has said nothing will be made official about the alleged Duncan Ferguson comments, till after Wednesday night's cup replay. For my two penneth, The Big Man might be a loose cannon at times, but he is certainly no racist, and me thinks this is Boa Morte's way at having a go back at the Blues, who have always had it in for him since he nearly decapitated Davey Weir a few seasons ago. (02/02/04)

Rezzies Fixture Change

Everton have announced a reserve match fixture change. The rezzies were due to play Bolton at Haig Avenue next week on the 5th February, but due to Everton's Cup Replay the next evening, the game has been put back to April 14th, at the same venue. Some cynics say that the fixture change is also due to the fact that Jordan is doing a bush tucker trial that evening that involves some nudity with snakes. Can't wait ! (30/01/04)

Go Get Them Kelly

Congratulations go to Kelly Mc Dougall who has been selected to represent England against Denmark next month. All you Blues should have no excuses for not cheering her on, as the game is live on Sky on Thursday February 19th, with a 7:35pm kick off. I have already told the missus, we are staying in that night. She told me to crawl back under the stone I came out off. Still love her though. (29/01/04)

Free Coach Tickets

Our Blue Bill has made free coach tickets available for the Fulham replay for anyone who books through the official Everton Travel Club. You don't have to be a member. If interested give Gill Flatley a call on 0151 330 2208. Well done Bill

Bill said: "I have marvelled year in year out at our extraordinary away support, and I know how much that means to the team and the manager and to me. I wanted to do my bit to get us a home draw against West Ham.I simply want to help out those supporters who are willing to give up their time and money to cheer on the team they love. We at Everton are blessed with some of the best, the most dedicated supporters in British football; they are always magnificent. As someone who faces a 500-mile round-trip each and every time we play at Goodison Park, I am acutely aware of just how difficult travel to an away fixture can be." (27/01/04)