The funeral of former Everton and Liverpool star David Johnson took place on Tuesday in the city, with poignant tributes from both clubs.
Johnson, who was from Halewood, had been ill for some time having been diagnosed with throat cancer in recent years, and passed away last month at the age of 71.
After the news of Johnson’s death was announced, warm tributes were paid on social media by numerous Merseyside football legends including Peter Reid, Ian Rush and John Aldridge. Former Reds team-mate David Fairclough wrote: “So sad to hear my great friend and Liverpool legend David Johnson has passed away. Shared so many great moments and memories. Today is a very sad day.”
Today saw the funeral service take place for Johnson in Woolton, with the cortege going past both Goodison Park and Anfield beforehand. The procession stopped outside the stadiums during the route as a mark of respect, with supporters making their way out to pay tribute.
And Johnson was represented by both clubs in his final journey towards St Peter's Church, with a red Liverpool hearse carrying his coffin, while a blue Everton hearse carried flowers.
Former players were in attendance at the service, with John Aldridge, Phil Thompson, Sammy Lee and Howard Gayle helping in carrying the coffin into the church. Sir Kenny Dalglish, Alan Hansen and John Barnes were also among there to pay their respects, as were Kevin Ratcliffe and Gary Gillespie, amongst many others.
Johnson had two spells during his playing career at Everton. He would also have stints at Ipswich Town, Barnsley, Manchester City, Preston North End and with clubs in the United States and Malta.
But it was during his time at Liverpool where Johnson enjoyed the most success as a player. In his six years at Anfield he helped win four First Division titles, two European Cups, one League Cup and a UEFA Super Cup.
Despite growing up as a Reds supporter, Johnson joined Everton as a youngster and impressed sufficiently for then Liverpool boss Bill Shankly to launch a concerted but failed effort to take him to Anfield.
Johnson was 19 when he made his Blues debut in January 1971, scoring in a 2-2 league draw at Burnley. That season he went on to net on his FA Cup debut against Derby County and his European bow against Panathinaikos.
After retiring, Johnson returned to Anfield to host in the corporate lounges, and was also a regular on BBC Radio Merseyside as a match summariser.
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