Everton’s legendary Goodison Park is about to close its doors for good this Sunday at lunchtime, marking the end of an era that has spanned over a century.
This historic farewell isn’t just another match day — it’s a deeply emotional moment for fans, players, and everyone connected to the club.
Among them is Alan Stubbs, a true Evertonian from childhood who not only played 193 times for the Toffees but also captained the team with pride.
From Gwladys Street to Captain’s Armband
Alan’s journey began long before he put on the Everton shirt.
As a young boy in the 1980s, he stood on crates behind the Gwladys Street End, soaking in the atmosphere of Goodison’s famous terraces.
That boyhood dream stayed alive, guiding him from those stands to leading the team on the pitch.
Last Friday, I had the chance to see Stubbs return to Goodison — not as a professional player, but in a special company game alongside his son Sam.
At 54, he held his own for 80 minutes and afterward, we chatted pitch-side about what Goodison truly means to him.
For Alan, it’s not just a stadium — it’s home.
Memories of Glory and Rivalry
Stubbs’ love for Everton runs deep, full of unforgettable moments both as a fan and a player.
He recalls the 1980s as a golden era, full of trophies and celebrations.
His heroes included Peter Reid and Graeme Sharp, and he vividly remembers the electrifying Cup Winners’ Cup semi-final against Bayern Munich, where the crowd’s energy could lift everyone off their feet.
Interestingly, Alan’s first-ever appearance at Goodison wasn’t in an Everton jersey but as a Bolton player, where he scored against his beloved team in an FA Cup upset.
It was a strange feeling, knowing his family in the stands wanted him to do well — but for Everton to win.
Becoming an Everton Mainstay
In 2001, Alan finally donned the Everton shirt after signing from Celtic.
His chaotic debut against Spurs saw two red cards for the opposition, but over the next seven years — except for a short loan spell at Sunderland — he was a rock at the heart of Everton’s defence.
Under his watch, the club transformed from relegation candidates to European contenders, finishing an impressive fourth in 2005.
One of his proudest moments was celebrating with champagne at Albert Dock after that season.
“Walking out at Goodison for the first time as a player felt better than any result I’d ever experienced,” Alan says.
Watching a Legend Rise
Stubbs was also there for another iconic moment — Wayne Rooney’s stunning goal against Arsenal.
The buzz around Rooney’s talent was already building at the training ground, and Alan was entrusted by manager David Moyes to look after the young star off the pitch.
He admits with a laugh that despite his best efforts, Rooney often got the better of him, especially when it came to late-night fun.
The Changing Face of the Derby
The rivalry between Everton and Liverpool, known as the Merseyside derby, has long been one of football’s fiercest yet friendliest.
Alan recalls the days when fans mingled with little trouble, and the match was dubbed “The Friendly Derby.”
But times have changed, and with Liverpool’s recent dominance and Everton’s struggles, that balance has shifted.
Alan believes fewer local players on the pitch means less fiery action but a more intense rivalry among fans. “It has drifted away from that friendly vibe,” he reflects.
“Maybe it’s just society or Liverpool’s success, but it’s different now.”
Looking Ahead to a New Home
Everton’s future lies beyond Goodison, with plans for a new stadium to boost revenues and compete at the highest level again.
Alan has already visited the new ground and believes it will have atmosphere, though he stresses that character comes with time.
“It’s like moving to a new house — impressive, but you need to put pictures on the walls.”
He’s realistic about the club’s challenges: the academy isn’t producing the same number of star players, and there’s pressure not to lose key talents like Jarrad Branthwaite.
“He’s already good and has the potential to be top-notch,” Alan notes.
A Personal Connection and Farewell
Not many know that when I left Liverpool in 2004, Everton was actually the first club I spoke to about joining.
But with the struggles ahead, I questioned if that was the right move.
So, while I never became part of Everton’s history, Alan Stubbs certainly did.
On Sunday, dozens of Everton legends will return to Goodison for the final time — players like Bob Latchford, Peter Reid, Graeme Sharp, and Wayne Rooney.
Alan will be there too, this time working in radio during the match. He admits the emotions will be overwhelming.
“There will be a tear in my eye,” he says openly.
Closing One Chapter, Opening Another
The final game at Goodison Park will be more than just a match — it will be an emotional celebration of history, passion, and memories.
For Alan Stubbs and the Everton family, it marks the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter full of hope and possibilities.
“As much as it’s sad to say goodbye, I’m excited about what’s next.
Let’s see what the future brings,” he adds with optimism.