Everton, a club so often shrouded in aggression and turmoil, has now shifted into a period of mourning following the sad announcement of the death of their Chairman, Bill Kenwright.
Having spent 34 years overseeing his boyhood side, coming under intense pressure to depart of late as his ailments piled up, in the end, his passing marks a truly dark day for this fine footballing institution, which owes a lot to the 78-year-old even if he came under scrutiny at times.
Tributes have understandably been pouring in, with many of his former players and staff, and even rival clubs, all seeking to offer their condolences to his club and the family, both of whom have lost a key and much-loved figure.
One such name was Phil Jagielka, who enjoyed a fine 12-year spell at Goodison Park before his 2019 departure.
The former Sheffield United centre-back would post a simple Instagram story, titled ‘R.I.P’ with a black and white photo of the late Chairman as the background.
It feels like his testament resounds heavier than most, given how effusive Kenwright was in his praise for the defender upon the announcement of his exit.
He would claim: ‘‘Jags’ is quite simply one of our greatest ever servants. From the day he joined us in July 2007, he has epitomised what it is to be an Evertonian and will remain someone who embodies the spirit and values of the Blues.’
How good was Phil Jagielka?
Kenwright’s notion was one few could argue with, given the longevity and incredible consistency of the Toffees’ former captain.
After all, Jagielka would play 385 times for the club, and although he never tasted silverware, he did win 40 caps for his country, becoming the first-ever Everton player to captain the England side too.
It is a testament to his talents that the owner of Bill Kenwright Limited, a vastly successful theatre, film and entertainment company, would rush to laud his contribution both on and off the pitch, emphasised through the two times he won the Clubs Player of the Season award, six years apart.
Jagielka marked a refreshing change of pace from the dismissive unloyalty of modern-day football, as someone willing to stick with a side through it all despite his well-documented talents.
As such, his affiliation with Everton will make the news of Kenwright’s passing even more heartfelt.
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