On this day in 1990, Neville Southall staged his infamous half-time sit-down at Goodison Park and was branded a “Judas” by some Everton fans but he remained at the club for over seven more years. Here’s the story of the fall-out from one of the most extraordinary incidents ever seen at ‘The Grand Old Lady.’
Some 11 days after Everton had been rocked by Southall and Kevin Sheedy's double transfer request, they kicked off the 1990/91 Division One season at home to Division Two champions Leeds United, back in the top flight after an eight-year absence. On the eve of the fixture, Harvey called for a show of solidarity both on and off the pitch, declaring: “We need to pull together to ensure that we make a good start.”
Meanwhile, there was a big interview in the ECHO with Leeds’ young star Gary Speed and his Evertonian roots – which were inspired by fellow North Walian Southall. The midfielder – who went on to sign for his beloved Blues six years later under Joe Royle – said: “I was a fanatical Everton supporter as a kid. I was a bit of a rebel in those days and because dad wanted me to follow Liverpool I chose Everton. My mates were Everton fans too and I’ve always rated Neville Southall the best ‘keeper in the land.”
