- Former Everton chairman Bill Kenwright passed away aged 78 on Tuesday
- Everton manager Sean Dyche and his captain Seamus Coleman paid tribute
- The pair laid down a wreath outside Goodison Park to show their respects
Everton boss Sean Dyche and his club captain Seamus Coleman paid tribute to the late Bill Kenwright by laying down a wreath outside Goodison Park after the former chairman’s death aged 78.
Kenwright passed away on Tuesday after having surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his liver in August, leaving the Merseyside club in mourning as a host of sporting figures offered their condolences.
Farhad Moshiri was among the names to pay tribute to Kenwright following his death, while Everton’s rivals Liverpool also offered support – and now manager Dyche and his captain have joined the names making an emotional gesture.
Everton posted a photo on social media on Wednesday afternoon of the pair bringing the floral tribute towards a statue of club legend Dixie Dean outside of their Goodison Park stadium.
A note was accompanied alongside the flowers from the club, saying: ‘In loving memory of our chairman, our leader, our friend and inspiration. With love and thanks from everyone at Everton Football Club.
Everton boss Sean Dyche and captain Seamus Coleman laid down a wreath outside Goodison Park to pay tribute to the late Bill Kenwright
A note on behalf of the club called Kenwright ‘our leader, our friend and inspiration’
Everton announced the news of Kenwright’s death in a tweet shared on Tuesday evening
Everton have continued to make gestures towards Kenwright and players held a minute silence ahead of their training session on Wednesday.
The club posted a picture of players stood with their arms behind their backs as a picture of Kenwright was displayed in front of them.
In a full statement announcing Kenwright’s passing, his company said: ‘Following a long battle with illness Bill passed away peacefully last night, surrounded by his family and loved ones.
‘Bill was driven by his passions and devoted his life to them; his deep love of theatre, film, music and his beloved Everton, and the families they created. He impacted the lives of thousands, whether that be through the launching of careers or his unending loyalty, generosity and unfaltering friendship and support.
Everton showed how their players observed a minute of silence for Kenwright before training
‘During his time as majority shareholder and Chairman of Everton FC, Bill led the Club through a period of unprecedented change in English football. We will remember him with huge love and admiration – the shows will of course go on, as he would have wished, and his towering legacy will continue.
‘A celebration of Bill’s life and career will be announced in due course. At this very difficult time we ask for privacy and respect for Bill’s family and friends.’
More to follow.