Everton Football Club have not always tasted the cherry at the top of English football, and thus they always tend to cherish the few times they have actually managed to do it. This is why, the club and its fans have gone into mourning, due to the death of their former player and manager Howard Kendall, who brought the rare glory days to the blue half of Merseyside.
Under the stewardship of Kendall, Everton have experienced what can arguably be called the best period in the history of the club, winning two League Championships (1984/85 and 1986/87), one FA Cup (1983/84), and the European Cup Winnersa Cup (1984/85).
Kendall had also donned Evertona s blue jersey, as a player, making 229 appearances for the Toffees, and scoring 21 goals for them, from midfield. He formed a formidable midfield partnership with the likes of Alan Ball and Colin Harvey, at Everton, helping the club win the League in 1969/70.
Kendall, aged 69, passed away in a Southport hospital, on Saturday, as grieving messages started to pour in for the Toffees great.
a The thoughts of everyone associated with the club are with Howarda s family at this difficult time and it would be appreciated if everyone could respect their request for privacy,a said the club in a statement, on their official website. They also announced that Kendalla s death will be observed in before Evertona s crucial clash against Manchester United, at the Goodison Park, on Wednesday.
Hundreds of messages of condolence poured over on Twitter, after the news of Kendalla s death broke out. Even some of the biggest names from the world of football tweeted-out with heavy hearts. Here are some of these tweets.
As well as a minutea s applause, there will be highlights of Howarda s achievements on the screens, along with your messages via #RIPHoward.
a Everton (@Everton) October 17, 2015
As a mark of respect, there will be a tribute to Howard Kendall before kick-off and both teams will wear black armbands.
a Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 17, 2015
RIP Howard Kendall
a Philip Neville (@fizzer18) October 17, 2015
We extend our condolences to the family, friends and former colleagues of Howard Kendall, who sadly passed away this morning. #NUFC
a Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) October 17, 2015
R I P Howard Kendall. It was an honour for me to be a youth player under your successful times and guidance of @Everton. #NSNO
a dave rogers (@rogersdave123) October 17, 2015
#EFC fans mourn the loss of legendary former manager Howard Kendall ahead of today’s #EFCvMUFC pic.twitter.com/D1lrCzhhDp
a Mark Edwardson (@markedtv) October 17, 2015
Thoughts & prayers go out to the family of a perfect gentleman, the best player/manger ever to grace the heart of Everton football club #RIP
a Michael Ball (@bally03) October 17, 2015
RIP Howard Kendall the greatest EFC manager there’s been. He gave me some of my best football memories especially in the 84/85 season.
a Jamie Carragher (@Carra23) October 17, 2015
Saddened to hear that Howard Kendall has passed away. Brilliantly managed the best club side I ever played for at Everton. Great bloke #RIP
a Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) October 17, 2015
Very very sad news about Howard Kendall. total respect for him as a player manager and person. Fantastic character. Be sadly missed.A legend
a Kenneth Dalglish (@kennethdalglish) . October 17, 2015
