FAN ARTICLES
Where Are They Now?
By Richard Porter : 08/09/2010 : 
Comments (90) :
I've been thinking about the depths to which some of our former players have sunk, partly inspired by the match report of last week's Cowdenbeath game, and partly by attending Lancaster v Warrington last night.
Comments (90) : The Cowdenbeath game was against Partick Thistle, and Cowden won inspired by a brilliant performance by their right winger, ballet dancer Brian Fairbairn. Fairbairn ran the show, and the embarrassed man failing to mark him was our former reserve left back Paddy Boyle, who recently joined Partick from 3rd Div Dumbarton.
Then, Warrington's 4-0 destruction of Lancaster featured as its midfield playmaker Gareth Farrelly, who famously scored the goal that saved us from relegation one year (Lancaster's side featured teenage former Everton academy players Alex Kenyon and Max Rothwell). Reading the Lancaster programme on the train home, I noticed that Burscough have recently signed Michael Branch, who seems to have been unattached since leaving Chester in 2006.
On the topic of Chester, their bankruptcy last season has seen them drop into the same division as Lancaster and Warrington (Evo-Stik League Div 1 North). Another effect of their folding was to make a free agent of one of our many former next big things, Nick Chadwick. Chadwick took advantage of free agency to move to Barrow.
He was briefly joined at Holker Street this summer by triallist JP Kissock who, since leaving Hamilton late last year, has largely been DJing in Merseyside. He also had trials at Hereford and Milton Keynes, but doesn't seem to have impressed anyone sufficiently to actually get a contract.
Paddy Boyle got me thinking about reserve left backs, and I remembered Lee Molyneux, who I saw many times play for teh Reserves in Widnes. Molyneux was spectacular at set pieces but less so from open play. He left us in the January 2009 transfer window to play for Southampton, which turned out to be slightly optimistic. He made just four appearances in 18 months before signing for Peter Reid's Plymouth Argyle (along with Anton Peterlin) at the start of this season, making four appearances already, although he is team leader in fouls and yellow cards.
Reader Comments (90)
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Nick Entwistle
2 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:13:32
2 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:13:32
I thought we had unearthed a gem in Chadwick, but Moyes obviously knows best after been given stick on these pages for blooding youngsters.
Just hope Anichebe and Vaughan don't go the same way.
Just hope Anichebe and Vaughan don't go the same way.
Robert Daniels
3 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:28:15
3 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:28:15
Excellent article, Richard; do you know what happened to Rob Wakenshaw and Martin Murray?
Stephen Kenny
4 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:32:59
4 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:32:59
For some bizzarre reason, the player's that get on the fringes of the first team then leave never seem to make it anywhere else? As your article clearly says, non-league football beckons for a lot of ex-Evertonians. This for me shows what a good eye for talent Moyes has. Rarely do these players get a few games, look out of their depth and then get moved on. Nor do they prove him wrong.
Alex Kociuba
5 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:40:17
5 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:40:17
To be fair to Farrelly, he did go on to play for Bolton and Wigan. I can't believe he was only 24 when he left us (in '99), I was under the impression he was much older than he is (just turned 35).
Alex Kociuba
6 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:42:31
6 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:42:31
How did Anton Peterlin (who's American) manage to get another work permit by the way?
Christopher McCullough
7 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:54:18
7 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:54:18
Stephen (#4):
I'm not questioning your evaluation of Moyes in this realm but in the past Everton have dropped some crackers.
Baines, Jagielka, Carragher, Johnson to name four.
I'm not questioning your evaluation of Moyes in this realm but in the past Everton have dropped some crackers.
Baines, Jagielka, Carragher, Johnson to name four.
Pete Gunby
8 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:49:06
8 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:49:06
Alex (#6), heard it from a scout that Peterlin has European parents thus no permit worries. The same scout had me sign off on one of his badges after showing me some fancy knots.
Glen Anderson
9 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:59:27
9 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:59:27
@ Alex - Peterlin has a Danish parent and a Danish passport, so no need for a work permit. I wish him well.
The other US player who arrived at a similar time "Cody Arnoux" is now in the second tier of US soccer and has joined a team that will move into the MLS next year, although I read recently that the MLS is concerned that by doing this he and his new club are flouting their complicated draft system, the notion being that really he should have moved from Everton back into the draft system and not moved to a club that is guaranteed next season to be in MLS. I'll see if I can find the link to that article again as it gave me insight into the complicated way that US soccer tiers and US grassroots football is set up.
The other US player who arrived at a similar time "Cody Arnoux" is now in the second tier of US soccer and has joined a team that will move into the MLS next year, although I read recently that the MLS is concerned that by doing this he and his new club are flouting their complicated draft system, the notion being that really he should have moved from Everton back into the draft system and not moved to a club that is guaranteed next season to be in MLS. I'll see if I can find the link to that article again as it gave me insight into the complicated way that US soccer tiers and US grassroots football is set up.
Charles King
10 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:40:42
10 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:40:42
It strikes me how uniformly talented or otherwise the modern day footballer is, rare is the player who recovers from being cast aside as a youngster.
I don't know whether to congratulate modern coaches on this or castigate them, either they're always right, or, they don't cultivate their youngsters enough.
Theoretically the discarded youngsters from Chels, Manu and Arse schools should be landing in the prems second tier but other than Cole at West Ham I'm struggling to think of an example.
Conversely, Jonathan Greening ex Manu kid, how he ever made a career in football I've always found shocking.
I don't know whether to congratulate modern coaches on this or castigate them, either they're always right, or, they don't cultivate their youngsters enough.
Theoretically the discarded youngsters from Chels, Manu and Arse schools should be landing in the prems second tier but other than Cole at West Ham I'm struggling to think of an example.
Conversely, Jonathan Greening ex Manu kid, how he ever made a career in football I've always found shocking.
Chris Hannon
11 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:06:25
11 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:06:25
John Paul kissock actually now plays for Newton from the Wirral in the Sunday West Cheshire leagues! A mate played against him a few weeks ago and said he was really good but cocky, big headed and basically a prick! I remember reading that Chelsea were ready to bid £3 million or him!
Callum Wilson
12 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:34:05
12 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:34:05
#3 Robert Daniels, re Rob Wakenshaw, I had a look for this one a while ago: http://www.doncasterrovers.co.uk/players/UtoW/Wakenshaw,Rob.htm because he's a lad I know. His dad lives on the Isle of Man these days.
Richard Porter
13 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:35:44
13 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:35:44
Rob Wakenshaw went on to play for Carlisle, Doncaster, Rochdale and Crewe, and his pro career seems to have ended 1989. He did play in a charity match for the Bobby Robson Foundation at Cramlington Juniors FC this summer.
Martin Murray returned to his first club Home Farm on leaving Everton (also Richard Dunne's first club, I think). Stayed in Ireland for the rest of his playing career, at Drogheda, Dundalk (won the double), St Pats, Bohemians and Crusaders (where he won the league twice). He later managed Dundalk, but seems to have been out of football since resigning in 2002. In his two and a bit year spell in charge Dundalk got promoted to, and relegated from, the Premier Dvision, won the FAI Cup and got destroyed in the UEFA Cup by FC Varteks.
Martin Murray returned to his first club Home Farm on leaving Everton (also Richard Dunne's first club, I think). Stayed in Ireland for the rest of his playing career, at Drogheda, Dundalk (won the double), St Pats, Bohemians and Crusaders (where he won the league twice). He later managed Dundalk, but seems to have been out of football since resigning in 2002. In his two and a bit year spell in charge Dundalk got promoted to, and relegated from, the Premier Dvision, won the FAI Cup and got destroyed in the UEFA Cup by FC Varteks.
Richard Porter
14 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:46:06
14 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:46:06
Glen (9): Cody Arnoux is indeed playing for the Vancouver Whitecaps, who will be added as an MLS expansion team. However, they don't hold the MLS rights to him, he will still go into the draft, and they will decide during his spell playing in the USL whether he is worth drafting. As an expansion team, they will get the top draft pick, and have Arnoux and one other draft-eligible player on their current roster to evaluate for that purpose.
Ray Robinson
15 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:56:02
15 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:56:02
Danny Cadamateri struggling to get back in a Scottish League side but Jamie Jones (former Academy goalie) getting rave reviews at Leyton Orient. We usually get it right but the occasional blunder is (inevitably) made ? not just by us but by all clubs. Man Utd let Peter Beagrie go as a youngster!
Thor Sørensen
16 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:52:49
16 Posted 08/09/2010 at 22:52:49
I find it shocking how some players go from making a decent impact on top flight football and then move on into total obscurity.
Michael Branch. Debut for Everton aged 17, plays 40-odd games in Royal Blue but fails to cement a regular starting place before Wolves shell out £500k for him at 21.
Michael Branch. Debut for Everton aged 17, plays 40-odd games in Royal Blue but fails to cement a regular starting place before Wolves shell out £500k for him at 21.
He plays regularly for a couple of seasons at Molyneux, then has reasonably successful loans at Reading and Hull before eventually signing for Bradford aged 24.
Three years later, aged only 27, he retires from the game! Five years out of football and then he recently makes a comeback playing for Burscough FC in the Northern Premier League. Madness!
Gareth Farrelly signs a professional contract with Aston Villa as a 16-year-old, moves to Everton five years later for £700k, a couple of seasons later, he goes to Bolton were he enjoys a successfull spell and contributes to them celebrating promotion to the Premier League. Five years later, he's had loan spells at Burnley, Bradford and Wigan before, at 29(!!!) he all of a sudden goes to Bohemians as player manager. Really astounding.
Richard Porter
17 Posted 08/09/2010 at 23:12:17
17 Posted 08/09/2010 at 23:12:17
At the start of last season, Cadamarteri had a few really good games for Dundee Utd but, once defenders got wise to the fact that his only real attribute is pace, he went off the boil.
Richard Porter
18 Posted 08/09/2010 at 23:13:57
18 Posted 08/09/2010 at 23:13:57
For a brief time last season, Warrington Town employed both Gareth Farrelly and Brett Angell, the latter as first team coach. He's now moved to New Zealand and is running coaching clinics.
Thor Sørensen
19 Posted 08/09/2010 at 23:13:54
19 Posted 08/09/2010 at 23:13:54
I saw Cadamarteri play for Huddersfield a year or so back. Thought he still looked pretty decent. Glanford Park was a hostile place for the visiting side and he didn't get much service from his midfield. Still, the lad worked hard and created a few chances all on his own against a robust Scunthorpe, who eventually gained promotion to the Championship the month after.
Still, how you can go from England U21 international and Merseyside derby goalscoring hero to lower-league football. Amazing!
Still, how you can go from England U21 international and Merseyside derby goalscoring hero to lower-league football. Amazing!
Marcus Choo
20 Posted 09/09/2010 at 02:46:17
20 Posted 09/09/2010 at 02:46:17
Great read Richard. How do you get all that info?? The level of detail is amazing... for that many players too.
Thor (17): I'm going to guess that it's a matter of willpower and mental strength. I guess they just didn't want it badly enough...
Thor (17): I'm going to guess that it's a matter of willpower and mental strength. I guess they just didn't want it badly enough...
Gary Hegarty
21 Posted 09/09/2010 at 08:03:14
21 Posted 09/09/2010 at 08:03:14
I think sometimes it depends on who 'releases' you. If you look at someone like Adam Farley who never got another deal anywhere and then someone like Paul McShane who was let go by Man United and has somehow made a career that makes Greening look like Pele. Not only that but gets international caps to boot... literally!!!
It's sometimes amazing to read these streams though and see the likes of JP Kissock doing nothing yet remembering the outcry for his "creativity" to be tried by Moyes.
Once in the senior squads (1st & Reserve) and released, it's Moyes decision and I can't think of one there that stands out as a mistake. However, as mentioned, Ray Hall has been known to make one or two blunders by being the decision maker for the youth players.
By the way, does anyone know what's the latest with Kieran Agard? Pace... trickery... Ooo ? right-side problem??
Sam Hoare
22 Posted 09/09/2010 at 08:19:03
22 Posted 09/09/2010 at 08:19:03
It's true. I remember desperately wanting Moyes to play the likes of JP Kissock... give the lad a chance, he's got some flair. And now look.
It just shows that we, as fans, have no idea what goes on in training and how good certain players really are. Moyes, it seems for the most part, does!
Whilst Rodwell is I think now beyond doubt a top class player, let's hope the likes of Coleman, Anichebe, Vaughan, Baxter et al do not sink into obscurity...
It just shows that we, as fans, have no idea what goes on in training and how good certain players really are. Moyes, it seems for the most part, does!
Whilst Rodwell is I think now beyond doubt a top class player, let's hope the likes of Coleman, Anichebe, Vaughan, Baxter et al do not sink into obscurity...
Liu Weixian
23 Posted 09/09/2010 at 09:28:11
23 Posted 09/09/2010 at 09:28:11
Oh no, not Coleman! If Moyes continues to ignore him, you can be sure that he'll be playing in the lower leagues in the near future!
Thor Sørensen
24 Posted 09/09/2010 at 09:40:51
24 Posted 09/09/2010 at 09:40:51
Marcus Choo #20.
I think you're right, they simply don't want it enough. Could it be a result of their loving Everton?
I know if I was a professional footballer plying my trade at Everton and they released me, I'd completely loose heart. I'd really struggle finding motivation to giving my all for Wigan or Hull.
I think you're right, they simply don't want it enough. Could it be a result of their loving Everton?
I know if I was a professional footballer plying my trade at Everton and they released me, I'd completely loose heart. I'd really struggle finding motivation to giving my all for Wigan or Hull.
Chris Briddon
25 Posted 09/09/2010 at 10:11:41
25 Posted 09/09/2010 at 10:11:41
For info, Michael Branch was playing for Buscough against Matlock Town (one of my local teams) in the Northern Premier League the other week.
He was taken off at half-time as he was played out of the game by the Matlock Town defender.
He was taken off at half-time as he was played out of the game by the Matlock Town defender.
Andrew Ellams
26 Posted 09/09/2010 at 10:27:34
26 Posted 09/09/2010 at 10:27:34
Check this line-up out. Not many of the second stringers here made it at the club.
Didn't realise Paul Wilkinson was so young when he scored THAT goal for Grimsby.
Didn't realise Paul Wilkinson was so young when he scored THAT goal for Grimsby.
Jimmy Hacking
27 Posted 09/09/2010 at 11:49:59
27 Posted 09/09/2010 at 11:49:59
Great little article this.
Thor (16) I too find it hard to get my head around how an exciting young Premier League player can drift out of the professional game so quickly.
Surely if you're good enough at 18, you're still good enough at 28?
The only pro footballer I've ever known is Darren Holloway http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darren_Holloway, a genuinely hot prospect as a kid at Sunderland with several Premier League clubs making moves to sign him, chose to join Wimbledon (bad choice, I know!) for £1.2 million, played quite a few games in the Prem for three different sides... then suddenly he's just another League 2 defender battling for a yearly contract extension, virtually retired at 30 cos no-one wanted him.
How can a player once deemed good enough to mark the likes of Shearer, Di Canio etc suddenly be sitting on the bench at Scunthorpe?
Thor (16) I too find it hard to get my head around how an exciting young Premier League player can drift out of the professional game so quickly.
Surely if you're good enough at 18, you're still good enough at 28?
The only pro footballer I've ever known is Darren Holloway http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darren_Holloway, a genuinely hot prospect as a kid at Sunderland with several Premier League clubs making moves to sign him, chose to join Wimbledon (bad choice, I know!) for £1.2 million, played quite a few games in the Prem for three different sides... then suddenly he's just another League 2 defender battling for a yearly contract extension, virtually retired at 30 cos no-one wanted him.
How can a player once deemed good enough to mark the likes of Shearer, Di Canio etc suddenly be sitting on the bench at Scunthorpe?
David Alexander
28 Posted 09/09/2010 at 12:46:43
28 Posted 09/09/2010 at 12:46:43
I guess like any job, it's easier to take a lesser role but finding a promotion is really tough. Once they step down, moving up again must be dificult to do particularly as bigger clubs only tend to notice small clubs' stand-out players.
Probably also shows that lots of reserves and schoolboys only get contracts to give the one or two genuine talents people to train with and play against.
Probably also shows that lots of reserves and schoolboys only get contracts to give the one or two genuine talents people to train with and play against.
Shane Corcoran
29 Posted 09/09/2010 at 13:23:33
29 Posted 09/09/2010 at 13:23:33
I'm petty sure Farrelly was player-manager of Bohemians in the League of Ireland a year or two ago.
Gary Hegarty
30 Posted 09/09/2010 at 13:28:34
30 Posted 09/09/2010 at 13:28:34
David #28 - It's possible. Personally, I made one or two steps in the Pro game before injury (hey, it was nothing to do with ability, honest!) and I know a number of players who have gone on to make a living and some not so lucky.
I'm not going to mention names but a former team-mate was the hot property at Man United for a number of years although most of us knew his ability was very limited... it just so happened his dad was a former player of Fergie's at Aberdeen. He got sold on and retired after 3 starts at his new club.
Conversely one of the greatest left feet I've seen, schoolboy international, literally got blackballed and left the game disillusioned at 18... not always based on ability is what I'm saying ? although my demise was clearly due purely to injury... I swear!!
Tony J Williams
31 Posted 09/09/2010 at 13:36:39
31 Posted 09/09/2010 at 13:36:39
I honestly bought into the hype surrounding JP Kissock and thought he would be the next big thing, should have known that anyone with hair like that who wasn't Brazilian would never make it.
Probably more to do with the fact he went to my old school...
Probably more to do with the fact he went to my old school...
Jamie Tulacz
32 Posted 09/09/2010 at 14:02:57
32 Posted 09/09/2010 at 14:02:57
Remember the time when Michael Branch was supposed to be the next thing as well?
These examples just show how hard it is to get into the upper echelons of the game and what a fine dividing line it is as there are so few spare spaces compared to aspiring players.
These examples just show how hard it is to get into the upper echelons of the game and what a fine dividing line it is as there are so few spare spaces compared to aspiring players.
Stephen Kenny
33 Posted 09/09/2010 at 14:45:48
33 Posted 09/09/2010 at 14:45:48
Chris,
You are right but to be fair, all those mentioned were let go at very young ages, I was referring specifically to the JP Kissocks and Steven Schumacher's of this world. Should have made that clear I suppose.
You are right but to be fair, all those mentioned were let go at very young ages, I was referring specifically to the JP Kissocks and Steven Schumacher's of this world. Should have made that clear I suppose.
Conor Ryan
34 Posted 09/09/2010 at 14:45:44
34 Posted 09/09/2010 at 14:45:44
Very interesting piece. I would actually love to know where some of our players from the 90s are now. The like's of Mark Ward going from derby scorer to coke dealer is a particulary facinating decline. It would be interesting to know who from that era is on the dole now. One man who is on the dole is a former england international from as recent as 2001: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Ricketts.
Gary Hegarty
35 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:01:41
35 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:01:41
In fairness Conor, Ricketts should have been made redundant and placed on the dole BEFORE he played for England. It's a sad indictment that he made Darius Vassell look world class.
You mention Mark Ward but who can forget the similar path trod by Billy Kenny???
Nick Entwistle
36 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:15:21
36 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:15:21
I don't think Ricketts needs to sign on...
Conor Ryan
37 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:07:40
37 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:07:40
The man still managed to bang in 15 prem goals by February of that season, which is a better goal scoring run than any Everton player I can think of in recent times.
It's something psychological for sure... Francis Jeffers! WTF happened there??? Perhaps when players think they've made it they get complacent and start to act the bolox in their personal lives & start living like rockstars .
Anyway, the drop in form topic aside, does anyone know where people like John Ebrell or Joe Parkinson are up to? It would be weird to see them working in McDonald's, but quite possible. The money they earned wouldn't be sustainable if not cleverly managed or invested.
Gary Hegarty
38 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:22:29
38 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:22:29
But Nick surely he has every right to claim his invalidity benefit...... well he was never very mobile when I saw him play. Boom Boom!!
Andrew Ellams
39 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:38:42
39 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:38:42
Conor, Joe Parkinson appeared in a series Sky did a while back ironically called 'Where Are They Now'. At the time that was filmed, he was a forklift driver in a warehouse.
Conor Ryan
40 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:40:45
40 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:40:45
Gary you are right, Michael Ricketts does qualify for disability.
Thanks for that, Andrew, that's quite fascinating. How much the players of yesteryear must envy the riches of the modern game.
Ella Thornton
41 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:48:37
41 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:48:37
I was reading the Guardian's interview last weekend with J Carragher (yes I know, sorry, but this bit was relevant) and he was saying something to the effect that most of the people he played alongside as a youngster were talented so it's a mystery why most didn't make it as professionals. He thought it must be down to mental attitude.
Gary Hegarty
42 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:54:41
42 Posted 09/09/2010 at 15:54:41
Well Ella ? whilst at a club that was pushing for promotion to the newly found Premier League, that was when I discovered alcohol and the impact that being a footballer has on females... I admit it altered my attitude to the game - although not as much as I've seen gambling impact a number of "solid" pro's.
Robert Daniels
43 Posted 09/09/2010 at 16:05:28
43 Posted 09/09/2010 at 16:05:28
I was talking to Deggsy Mountfield at a do a while back and he said he earned about £200 a week in the eighties, and the best wages he recieved were after Everton, think Sheffield Wednesday.
I think Joe the Pieman is now back at Goodison on the corporate side, with Duncan McKenzie, Sharpy, Alan Whittle, and a few others...
I think Joe the Pieman is now back at Goodison on the corporate side, with Duncan McKenzie, Sharpy, Alan Whittle, and a few others...
Ella Thornton
44 Posted 09/09/2010 at 16:13:54
44 Posted 09/09/2010 at 16:13:54
Thanks Gary, looks I was being naive to accept what he said at face value - although "mental attitude" could cover just about any transgression!
Ella Thornton
45 Posted 09/09/2010 at 16:26:26
45 Posted 09/09/2010 at 16:26:26
£200 a week - can that be right? Thinking back to when we were winning championships I think I was earning about half that and wasn't well paid, I had to budget very carefully. Even in pre-premiership days that doesn't sound very much for a top level player. £2000 sounds more likely.
Robert Daniels
46 Posted 09/09/2010 at 16:41:17
46 Posted 09/09/2010 at 16:41:17
I had a bit to drink Ella, but that's the amount he said.
I found it hard to believe myself.
He was adamant on it.
I found it hard to believe myself.
He was adamant on it.
Nick Entwistle
47 Posted 09/09/2010 at 17:19:35
47 Posted 09/09/2010 at 17:19:35
I read Joe Parkinson only fork lifted 'cos he was bored at home... as for Neil Webb, now he's a white van man...
Oh, and for the record, Andy van de Meyde is again without a club after PSV got rid... not that he needs to sign on.
Michael Lynch
48 Posted 09/09/2010 at 18:12:43
48 Posted 09/09/2010 at 18:12:43
Anyone remember the young right back called Jon O'connor who played for us in the 95-96 season I think? Everyone around me in the Gwladys reckoned he was a future international. I haven't got a clue what happened to him.
Andy Crooks
49 Posted 09/09/2010 at 18:32:00
49 Posted 09/09/2010 at 18:32:00
Michael. I remember Jon O'Connor and recall he looked a good prospect. He went to one of the Sheffield clubs and I heard he quit football because of ME (the illness, by the way).
Mike Allison
50 Posted 09/09/2010 at 18:29:38
50 Posted 09/09/2010 at 18:29:38
Jon O'Connor always went on to be England captain on CM 97/98, the same game that had Riquelme and Cambiasso at the age of 15 as future stars.
But then the programmers were Everton fans.
But then the programmers were Everton fans.
Richard Porter
51 Posted 09/09/2010 at 18:57:14
51 Posted 09/09/2010 at 18:57:14
Jon O'Connor was at Sheffield United from 1998 to 2000, he then moved to Blackpool, but had to retire in 2002 aged 25. He suffered lots of injuries while with us and Sheff utd, and suffered from glandular fever when at Blackpool, both of which seriously affected his physical fitness.
Mark Hill
52 Posted 09/09/2010 at 18:59:11
52 Posted 09/09/2010 at 18:59:11
Conor Ryan (34) I actually work with Mark Ward now, he seems like a really nice fellow to be honest. He has some stories to tell, but I agree, it's amazing that they can go from 'rock stars' to next to nothing in a matter of minutes...
I always thought that Graham Allen was going to make it... Paul Hopkins was another, and Kevin McLeod, but apart from fleeting appearances as they have drifted away from Goodison, nothing has been heard of them.
It is interesting in the amount of stick the manager gets for letting players go, only to be proven right when they have not ever come back. Of course there are cases in the opposite, Baines being just one of them....
I always thought that Graham Allen was going to make it... Paul Hopkins was another, and Kevin McLeod, but apart from fleeting appearances as they have drifted away from Goodison, nothing has been heard of them.
It is interesting in the amount of stick the manager gets for letting players go, only to be proven right when they have not ever come back. Of course there are cases in the opposite, Baines being just one of them....
Thor Sørensen
53 Posted 09/09/2010 at 19:12:30
53 Posted 09/09/2010 at 19:12:30
Michael Lynch # 48. I tought I remembered Jon O'Connor, but it was actually Graham Allen I recalled. Got them mixed up.
I really thought Allen would make it though, replacing Earl Barrett.
Another player I had high hopes for was John O'Kane. Anyone remember him?
A product of Man Utd and a member of their FA Youth Cup winning side of the 1991-92 season. Made his Premier League debut aged 20. Two years later Howard Kendall picked him up for a mere £400k. Impressed at times, but in the end failed to cement a place at Everton. Stints at Bolton and Blackpool before he moved into non-league aged 28.
I really thought Allen would make it though, replacing Earl Barrett.
Another player I had high hopes for was John O'Kane. Anyone remember him?
A product of Man Utd and a member of their FA Youth Cup winning side of the 1991-92 season. Made his Premier League debut aged 20. Two years later Howard Kendall picked him up for a mere £400k. Impressed at times, but in the end failed to cement a place at Everton. Stints at Bolton and Blackpool before he moved into non-league aged 28.
Conor Ryan
54 Posted 09/09/2010 at 19:46:09
54 Posted 09/09/2010 at 19:46:09
Mark Hill, I have no doubt he's a nice man and he has certainly lived a more interesting life than most. He should write a book.
Thor Sørensen
55 Posted 09/09/2010 at 19:37:54
55 Posted 09/09/2010 at 19:37:54
Goalkeeper Espen Baardsen is another astounding story (played 1 game for Everton).
He was the great young hope of the Norwegian national side. Baardsen played more than 20 matches for the U21 side and impressed enough during the 1997-98 season for Tottenham to claim a place in Norway's squad for the 1998 World Cup, only 20 years old. Lost his place at Spurs, but enjoyed reasonable succes at Watford in the PL under Vialli.
He was the great young hope of the Norwegian national side. Baardsen played more than 20 matches for the U21 side and impressed enough during the 1997-98 season for Tottenham to claim a place in Norway's squad for the 1998 World Cup, only 20 years old. Lost his place at Spurs, but enjoyed reasonable succes at Watford in the PL under Vialli.
Eventually he lost his place there to veteran Alec Chamberlain and was loaned to Everton were he played one game, away to former club Tottenham, before retiring at the age of 25, claiming he was disillsioned with the game. Not much of a loss to Everton, but shocking for the Norway team.
Colin Ryan
56 Posted 09/09/2010 at 20:20:53
56 Posted 09/09/2010 at 20:20:53
Great article lads. Keep it up. Anyone remember Mark Hughes the promising centre back from 5 years ago. I thought he looked decent but is now playing for North Queensland Fury after spells at Northampton and Walsall. Still only 23.
Oliver Chrimes
57 Posted 09/09/2010 at 20:23:08
57 Posted 09/09/2010 at 20:23:08
David Carney did ok last year winning the Dutch league with FC Twente.
Gary Hegarty
58 Posted 09/09/2010 at 20:55:30
58 Posted 09/09/2010 at 20:55:30
Carney is now of Blackpool, so joining Keith Southern who, when fit will have played for Blackpool in all 4 divisions since leaving with Peter Clarke. Now that's knowledge!
Mark Hill
59 Posted 09/09/2010 at 21:47:05
59 Posted 09/09/2010 at 21:47:05
Conor Ryan (54), I am guessing you are being a bit sarki? ? he has written a book I understand... but you're right, he has lived a more interesting life, that I can assure you of...!!
Stuart O'Malley
60 Posted 09/09/2010 at 22:31:00
60 Posted 09/09/2010 at 22:31:00
Thor (55), I think that veteran you speak of, Alec Chamberlain, also turned out for us once upon a time... my memory does not always serve me correctly though!
Conor Ryan
61 Posted 09/09/2010 at 22:50:02
61 Posted 09/09/2010 at 22:50:02
I wouldn't call it sarky ? more of a quirkey joke which is impossible to explain if you didn't get it. He has wrote a book. It's called "From right wing to wing B" and I've been meaning to read it .
Alex Kociuba
62 Posted 10/09/2010 at 02:16:11
62 Posted 10/09/2010 at 02:16:11
"[Espen Baardsen] is currently a partner and fund manager for Eclectica Asset Management, a London-based asset management company. He is a frequent guest on the business television network, CNBC"
Alex Kociuba
63 Posted 10/09/2010 at 02:27:31
63 Posted 10/09/2010 at 02:27:31
Stuart, by the looks of things Alec Chamberlain signed for Everton in 87/88 for £80k from Colchester United but couldn't get a game for obvious reasons.
Ernie Baywood
64 Posted 10/09/2010 at 02:57:22
64 Posted 10/09/2010 at 02:57:22
Excellent thread, particularly for those of us who played Championship Manager through the 90s!
Joe Parkinson I thought was still at the club. He was a hell of a player ? widely tipped for England. Could play a lot more football than he got credit for ? and outplayed Ince more than once.
A couple of other names for the mix:
Jon Oster ? The new Giggs ? who would have thought the old one would still be outperforming him?
Richie Townsend. Moved around local teams but the last I can find for him is Altrincham in 2004. Sounds like he had dodgy knees.
Joe Parkinson I thought was still at the club. He was a hell of a player ? widely tipped for England. Could play a lot more football than he got credit for ? and outplayed Ince more than once.
A couple of other names for the mix:
Jon Oster ? The new Giggs ? who would have thought the old one would still be outperforming him?
Richie Townsend. Moved around local teams but the last I can find for him is Altrincham in 2004. Sounds like he had dodgy knees.
Ernie Baywood
65 Posted 10/09/2010 at 03:16:12
65 Posted 10/09/2010 at 03:16:12
Speaking of Carney, there was a lad called Kristian Sarkies who also trialled at Everton. Went onto become the poster boy for Melbourne Victory in the first season before moving to Adelaide and developing glass legs. Currently in the treatment room for Melbourne Heart. If it were not for injuries I'm certain he'd be back in England by now. He's the most two footed player I've ever seen ? can take set pieces with either and delivers a brilliant ball.
Mark Hughes is doing alright for Nth Qld. Wasn't he an England captain at youth level?
Mark Hughes is doing alright for Nth Qld. Wasn't he an England captain at youth level?
Christopher McCullough
66 Posted 10/09/2010 at 03:47:04
66 Posted 10/09/2010 at 03:47:04
Stephen, re-reading your post, I know exactly what you mean now. Sorry about that.
Ella #41:
I agree with Carragher's comment. The biggest obstacles to a young footballer's development are cigarettes, alcohol and drugs.
Here in Belfast we produce underage teams, up until about under 14, that are amongst the best in Europe.
There must be something in the mainland European mindset, or in the quality of their developmental courses, that overcomes these social problems.
Ella #41:
I agree with Carragher's comment. The biggest obstacles to a young footballer's development are cigarettes, alcohol and drugs.
Here in Belfast we produce underage teams, up until about under 14, that are amongst the best in Europe.
There must be something in the mainland European mindset, or in the quality of their developmental courses, that overcomes these social problems.
Matt Traynor
67 Posted 10/09/2010 at 08:35:30
67 Posted 10/09/2010 at 08:35:30
Christopher (#66). Seems those obstacles are not just to young footballers, but some of the current top players. And women...
David Hallwood
68 Posted 10/09/2010 at 09:48:54
68 Posted 10/09/2010 at 09:48:54
Christopher McCullough #66; apparently Wenger has stated on many occasions the reason prefers foreign players is because of the way British people and especially young Brits... erm, socialise.
Gavin Ramejkis
69 Posted 10/09/2010 at 10:06:35
69 Posted 10/09/2010 at 10:06:35
I dare say every team in the leagues could show similar stories, the worse scenario is letting a kid go only to re-sign them years later but it happens.
David #68, I'll never forget the PFA awards years ago, when the cameras panned to each of the tables there were players surrounded by booze galore, switch to the Arsenal table and it was bottled water.... It's a short life but one which could earn you more money than you could spend in a dozen lifetimes, players need to discipline themselves, they have years ahead of them to turn into pissheads and smokers.
David #68, I'll never forget the PFA awards years ago, when the cameras panned to each of the tables there were players surrounded by booze galore, switch to the Arsenal table and it was bottled water.... It's a short life but one which could earn you more money than you could spend in a dozen lifetimes, players need to discipline themselves, they have years ahead of them to turn into pissheads and smokers.
Danny Burke
70 Posted 10/09/2010 at 09:26:12
70 Posted 10/09/2010 at 09:26:12
My Mrs had her hair or makeup (somthing like that) done by Joey Parkinson's wife when we got married. Turns out they are struggling for money and have had to downsize their house a couple of times. Joe was driving fork lifts at the time and doing some matchday hospitality. I think he's also involved in the ex-players charity. One area the club does seem decent at its trying to look after former players.
I loved Joey Parkinson as a kid and it's a shame injury cut short his career, I'm certain he would have played for England. Oh Joey Joey, Joey Joey Joey Joey Parkinson!
I loved Joey Parkinson as a kid and it's a shame injury cut short his career, I'm certain he would have played for England. Oh Joey Joey, Joey Joey Joey Joey Parkinson!
Andy Mack
71 Posted 10/09/2010 at 09:57:13
71 Posted 10/09/2010 at 09:57:13
Excellent read. I'm glad Carney battled back. I remember him standing out in the FA Youth Cup, I was as impressed with him as Rooney. Then released... next thing I know, up he pops for the Socceroos in the World Cup qualifying, Australia's Player of the Season 2007-08 ahead of Cahill! Now back in the Premier as mentioned. Nice to hear they aren't all bad luck stories.
Chris Keightley
72 Posted 10/09/2010 at 11:24:45
72 Posted 10/09/2010 at 11:24:45
Remember Mark Hughes, reserve team captain from a few seasons back? Well, he is now playing as centre back for North Queensland Fury and very well by all accounts.
Chris Perry
73 Posted 10/09/2010 at 12:23:06
73 Posted 10/09/2010 at 12:23:06
I may have missed it but for me there was one kid who had the world at his feet, no not shrek, but Billy Kenny! Now there was a midfield general at 18 was the bee's knees, but he went off the rails and went to Oldham, where after I don't know. The biggest waste of talent ever to come out of the club.
Chris Perry
74 Posted 10/09/2010 at 12:49:59
74 Posted 10/09/2010 at 12:49:59
Mark Hill. Do also deal in drugs? Ha ha!
Richard Porter
75 Posted 10/09/2010 at 15:18:02
75 Posted 10/09/2010 at 15:18:02
Billy Kenny was Number 1 in a list of "Football's Lost Talents" compiled by Rob Smyth of the Guardian;
1) Billy Kenny (Everton, Oldham)
When Kenny, aged 19, was the man of the match in the Premiership's first Merseyside derby, his team-mate Peter Beardsley excitably christened him the "Goodison Gazza". If only he knew. The comparison was not gratuitous: Kenny was a midfielder blessed with sublime skill, especially in his passing, and perhaps more importantly a striking fearlessness (when Vinny Jones greeted him with a trademark early reducer, Kenny took the medicine uncomplainingly and then gave Jones a taste of it a few minutes later). But sadly the comparison to Gazza was equally relevant off the pitch: Kenny self-destructed, only much sooner. He chose not to choose life; he chose something else.
Unable to handle his newfound celebrity, he began to cross the white line on and off the pitch. "Some mornings I got home at four or five, had a couple of lines of cocaine, slept for an hour and then went to training," he said. "Sometimes I could hardly see the ball. I was a joke." He was sacked first by Everton and then by Oldham; he played his last league game at 22. But even though he only played 17 times for Everton, he still makes some fans' all-time XI.
1) Billy Kenny (Everton, Oldham)
When Kenny, aged 19, was the man of the match in the Premiership's first Merseyside derby, his team-mate Peter Beardsley excitably christened him the "Goodison Gazza". If only he knew. The comparison was not gratuitous: Kenny was a midfielder blessed with sublime skill, especially in his passing, and perhaps more importantly a striking fearlessness (when Vinny Jones greeted him with a trademark early reducer, Kenny took the medicine uncomplainingly and then gave Jones a taste of it a few minutes later). But sadly the comparison to Gazza was equally relevant off the pitch: Kenny self-destructed, only much sooner. He chose not to choose life; he chose something else.
Unable to handle his newfound celebrity, he began to cross the white line on and off the pitch. "Some mornings I got home at four or five, had a couple of lines of cocaine, slept for an hour and then went to training," he said. "Sometimes I could hardly see the ball. I was a joke." He was sacked first by Everton and then by Oldham; he played his last league game at 22. But even though he only played 17 times for Everton, he still makes some fans' all-time XI.
Robert Daniels
76 Posted 10/09/2010 at 16:47:01
76 Posted 10/09/2010 at 16:47:01
I watched Billy Kenny at the Wimbledon game, and I seem to remember he kicked Jones up the arse.
He was as good as anything I've ever seen. What a player he should of been.
He was as good as anything I've ever seen. What a player he should of been.
Ray Roche
77 Posted 10/09/2010 at 22:05:14
77 Posted 10/09/2010 at 22:05:14
I seem to remember a Neil Moore making his debut against Utd in the mid 90s and having an excellent game along side Watson at centre back but leaving for Norwich. I don't know what happened after that but his failure to make the mark surprised many.
Mark Hill
78 Posted 11/09/2010 at 00:33:56
78 Posted 11/09/2010 at 00:33:56
No Conor... just construction... mainly... !
Nick Entwistle
79 Posted 11/09/2010 at 01:04:50
79 Posted 11/09/2010 at 01:04:50
Neil Moore...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neil_Moore
Played his way down the leagues, but still going at non-league level.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neil_Moore
Played his way down the leagues, but still going at non-league level.
Ray Roche
80 Posted 11/09/2010 at 07:42:01
80 Posted 11/09/2010 at 07:42:01
Thank you, Nick, the lower leagues must be full of "next best thing" players.
James Mulhern
81 Posted 11/09/2010 at 07:56:37
81 Posted 11/09/2010 at 07:56:37
Warren Aspinall - last heard that he was working for a Sainsbury's distribution centre in Basingstoke. Life got rather tough for the lad and I think he tried to kill himself at some point.
James Mulhern
82 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:03:05
82 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:03:05
@ Jamie Tulacz (post 32);
If recall correctly I think Joe Royle was talking about Branch being the next big thing in English football. Maybe he was that good but like Jeffers his attitude played big part in him going nowhere. Also, at that time we were under so much pressure to produce a home grown hero ? Liverpool had been producing a few and we always seemed to be "in need" of our own hero.
If recall correctly I think Joe Royle was talking about Branch being the next big thing in English football. Maybe he was that good but like Jeffers his attitude played big part in him going nowhere. Also, at that time we were under so much pressure to produce a home grown hero ? Liverpool had been producing a few and we always seemed to be "in need" of our own hero.
James Mulhern
83 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:08:01
83 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:08:01
@ Conor Ryan (post 37). John Ebbrell recently took over Tranmere Rovers youth development. He had spent a long time away from the game ? I think he had a property business,
James Mulhern
84 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:11:44
84 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:11:44
Barry Horne - Currently works at The King's School, Chester as a chemistry and physics teacher and director of football.
James Mulhern
85 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:13:19
85 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:13:19
@ Robert Daniels (post 43)
Today, Derek is a PE teacher PE at Pensby High School on the Wirral.
Today, Derek is a PE teacher PE at Pensby High School on the Wirral.
James Mulhern
86 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:15:49
86 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:15:49
Ian Marshall - headed to Canada and opened a restaurant there (named after his wife Sam).
James Mulhern
87 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:18:20
87 Posted 11/09/2010 at 08:18:20
Anyone know what John Bailey does today?
Thomas Christensen
88 Posted 11/09/2010 at 10:59:15
88 Posted 11/09/2010 at 10:59:15
Shaun O'Hanlon, once a reserve player is now playing his football at the MK Dons and is a first team central defender. He is really probably the best defender the Dons have.
Richard Porter
89 Posted 11/09/2010 at 11:56:05
89 Posted 11/09/2010 at 11:56:05
Has anyone read Dave Prentice's column in today's echo? I think we may have inspired him:
http://m.liverpoolecho.co.uk/ms/p/tmg/livecho/sz7821UtgFi2CN7UW24NA7A/view.m?id=2116446&tid=638956&cat=EvertonFC_News
In fact, call me paranoid but his paragraphs on Brett Angell and JP Kissock seem to be directly lifted from my posts! And he's wrong about Jamie Milligan, he left Fleetwood in the summer, and I saw him playing for AFC Fylde against Lancaster last month.
Robert Daniels
90 Posted 11/09/2010 at 20:53:26
90 Posted 11/09/2010 at 20:53:26
James @ 85 ?Thanks for the info. mate.
By the way, he's a lovely bloke.
By the way, he's a lovely bloke.
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1 Posted 08/09/2010 at 21:08:47
Sad to see how many fall by the wayside but we try to remember them all from the current era.