Everton Independent Research Data
EVERTON PLAYER GOES TO SCOTLAND
May 1, 1914. The Liverpool Echo
Brannick the ex-Atherton player, has been signed by St. Mirren. This stocky player has had only one season with Everton, but he started well and scored in the first two games. He joins other ex-Evertonians in E. Magner, and W. Davidson. The official list of signings from the Everton Club do not include the names of certain players, whom rumour has been kind enough to deal with at full length. One such is J. MaConnachie, but he, like Makepeace and Harris, is expected to sign in a few days. I regret to learn that MaConnachie’s father died recently. The following is the list for next season as far as the signing process has gone:- Bromilow, Chaloner, Chedgzoy, Clennell, Fern, Fleetwood, Grenyer, Harrison, Houston, Jefferis, Johnson, Lance Johnstone,(the player who broken his leg) Mitchell, Nuttall, Palmer, Parker, Roy, Simpson, Stevenson, Thompson, Wareing, Weller, Wright, and Roberts (Crewe Alexandra).
On the List
The following players have been placed on the transfer lists (says a Scottish correspondent)
Everton
Frank Bradshaw (Inside left); George Beare (Outside Right); William Hodge (Goalkeeper); John Page (Right or Left Back); Tom Page (Centre Forward or Inside Left); William Palmer (outside Left); Robert Simpson (Right Full Back); William Stalker (Left Full Back), Gilbert Turner (Goalkeeper).
THE SIGNING PROCESS
May 1, 1914. The Evening Express
By the “Critic.”
The season has run its course, and the players now adjourn to their homes to enjoy the summer vacation –at least, those who have been fortunate enough to fix up engagements for next season. The business of signing on is proceeding apace, and, as stated exclusively in the “Express” last night, both Everton and Liverpool have made a good start. The official list of Everton players which the “Express” was able to give last evening has been augmented and I am officially informed that the following is the full list:-
Everton’s Full List.
Bromilow, Chaloner, Chedgzoy, Clennell, Fern, Fleetwood, Grenyer, Harrison, Houston, Jefferis, Johnson, Johnstone, Mitchell, Nuttall, Palmer, Parker, Roy, Simpson, Stevenson, Thompson, Wareing, Weller, Wright, and Roberts (Crewe Alexandra). It will be noticed that among the players not re-signed are Turner, Page (Full backs), Stalker, Beare, Bradshaw, ad Tom Page. It will be noticed that MaConnachie, Harris, and Makepeace are not included, but I learn that the players named will be secured later. The sympathy of his many football friends will go out to the captain in the sad lost he has sustained in the death of his father. Everton may be depended on to have a strong side next season, and certainly they have the foundation of a tip-top eleven. There are some promising talent in the ranks, notably Wright, Roy, Roberts, and Kirsopp, young players who are rapidly coming to the front.
END OF FOOTBALL CAMPAIGN
May 2, 1914. The Evening Express
By the “Critic.”
Everton have had a most disappointing time, but it has not been entirely due to bad play. Few clubs have suffered from the frowns of fortune as the Blues have done, and the injuries to many of their players have undoubtedly contributed largely to the extremely moderate season. Just when the Goodison brigade were showing every sign of having a good time players began to be disabled, and the team in consequence was partially disorganised. Chedgzoy and Johnson, two players who showed much promise were early laid aside, and other members of the team were also disabled. At some time or other all clubs suffer misfortune, and the past season has proved one of Everton’s leanest years. They finished fifteenth in the table –absolutely the lowest position they have ever occupied since the club came into existence. We look forward to better things next season, and I am sure if it at all possible the directors will build up a team capable of holding their own and establishing the club in its proper position among the leading lights.
Pot Shots
• Everton’s Wright is coming on like a housafire.This Egremout youth is moulding his play on the style of Laey’s and next season he is likely to prove of great worth to the club, he played a great game on Saturday.
• Palmer too, is coming on. When in the right mood he, like Beare, is a most useful wing forward.
• Everton’s success in winning the Central League championship was well deserved. The Blues did well to draw at Staylebridge.
• Harry Makepeace is to put yet another season in with Everton. This popular local player is having a good innings. Let us hope he will knock up a few centuries this season.
• How would Tom Page suit Liverpool? He showed much promise in the earlier part of the season when playing for Everton... Everton have signed on quite a few players, where is the new talent coming from?
MAKEPEACE SIGNS ON
May 2, 1914. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
The signing on process goes on a pace in the football world, and the latest few of local interest is that Makepeace the England back has again appeared his signature for Everton and the members of the regular league team yet to sign are Harris and Macconacchie
VAL HARRIS RETURNS TO SHELBOURNE
May 4, 1914. The Evening Express
By the “Critic.”
Another local favourite in Val Harris is to return home. The noted Everton half-back up to the present has not been able to agree to the terms offered to him by the Everton club, and though the Goodison club have no official information on the point, it is reported from Ireland that Val has thrown in his lot with the Dublin Shelborne club. It will be remembered that this is the team Harris left to join Everton. The Irishman has proved himself one of the best half-backs the Blues ever had, and he thoroughly earned the £500 benefit which was awarded to him last season. He has performed in very consistent fashion during his association with the club ad if he has scored but one goal for Everton against Notts County –he has prevented many points being notched by his skill as a half-back. Altogether Harris has had a most remarkable career with the Goodison club, and his many friends will wish him success on his rejoining Irish football once more.
HARRIS RETURNS TO IRELAND
May 4, 1914. The Liverpool Echo
Bee's Notes the news of Val Harris returning to Ireland. This famed Evertonian and international player has made friends wherever he has played. He is as clean as a pink in all his work, and never a fairer player stepped on the field. I believe it is true to say that Everton offered him terms, but that he wanted something that the club would not give. The outcome of all the business is that another link is broken, and we shall regret the decision. Harris has made to play for the Shelbourne Club. Harris's first appearance at Everton was with Ireland many years ago, and he then turned out at outside right. He appeared in subsequent matches at centre forward, but later on coming to Everton, was a wing half-back of rare merit and with Taylor and Makepeace made up a grand trio of half-backs. He has our good wishes in his new sphere of influence.
Val Harris
Dundee Evening Telegraph -Monday 4 May 1914
Some surprise was occasioned in Belfast the news that Val Harris, Everton, had decided to return to Irish football again, and assist 3 old club. Shelbourne. was to have assisted the latter on Saturday against Bohemians, in the benefit match for two old Shelbourne players, W. Rowo and W. Watson, but did not turn out.
Local Footballers transferred.
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 05 May 1914
Two leading local footballers have been transferred, Val Harris, of Everton, the Irish international, returning to Shelboume, and E. Peake, of Liverpool, Welsh international, going to Third Lanark. Harris has done some capital work for Everton, and he returns to the club from which he came to Goodison Park. It is stated Everton offered him terms which he was unable to accept. Peake was granted a free transfer.
VAL HARRIS
Hull Daily Mail -Thursday 07 May 1914
Val Harris, who has left Everton and returned to his former club in Ireland -Shelbourne -was offered terms by the former which he could not accept. The Irishman had a benefit at Goodison last season, and along with Harry Makepeace was presented with a cheque for $500
WILL EVERTON CAPTAIN GO TO IRELAND?
May 7, 1912. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
It would seem that there is a chance of J.S. MaConnachie, the Everton captain following in Val Harris’s wake, and turning to Ireland. The news about MaConnachie is that if he cannot get his terms with Everton he will join Belfast Celtic. I should imagine however that he would more likely be put on transfer and would go to Scottish club. By the way Everton have decided once again to try a third team. Next season thus side will play all away matches and clubs in the city are asked to communicate with Mr. W.C. Cuff as they would make a fixture. The ideal is good. Joe Smith the ex-Blue has also moved back to Ireland
MACONNACHIE RE-SIGNS AND “SANDY” SAILS AWAY
May 8, 1914. The Liverpool Echo
John Macconnachie has rebooked for Everton, and has thus settled the stories that have been freely circulated during the last two months.
Another Everton favouritie has signed on for Australia. I refer to “Sandy” Young, who today sailed from Tilbury Docks. Thus, so far as this land is concerned, cads the story of one of the most fascinating players that every toed a ball. He was noteworthy, for something else than scoring the goal by which Everton landed the Cup. He was known for his intricate yet easily-performed dribbling. It was often said that he got the half backs shrinking –and his partners. Aye, some said that he dribbled himself into a maze. At any rate his dribbling was fashioned after the old school of dribbling, in which Settle stood out boldly, and the present age would he all the better for a little genius on the part of forwards. Young, who is joining his brother in Australia, has been rusticating in Scotland for some time. Prior to this the Stirling boy had played for Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City, and South Liverpool. Still barking on old Evertonians, Harold Hardman, an outside left at Everton, and now a director of Manchester United, has been nominated for a position on the Lancashire F.A.
MACONNACHIE RE-SIGNS AND “SANDY” SAILS AWAY
May 8, 1914. The Liverpool Echo
John McConnachie has re-booked for Everton and has thus settled the stories that have been freely circulated during the last two month’s.
Another Everton favourite has signed for Australia. I refer to “Sandy” Young who today sailed from Tubury Docks. Thus so far as this land is concerned ends the story of one of the most fascinating players that ever toed a ball. He was note-worthy for something else than scoring the goal by which Everton landed the Cup. He was known for his intricate yet easily performed dribbling. It was often said that he got the half-backs thinking –and his partners. Aye, some said that he dribbed himself in a maze. At any rate his dribbling was fashioned after the old school of dribbling, in which Settle stood out boldly, and the present age would be all the better for a little genuine on the part of forwards. Young who is joining his brother in Australia has been rusticating in Scotland for some-time. Prior to this the Stirling boy had played for Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City, and South Liverpool. Sill harking on old Evertonians, Harold Hardman, an outside left at Everton, and now a director of Manchester United has been nominated for a position on the Lancashire F.A. and Caldwell, the ex-Everton has been placed on the transfer list of Arsenal along with another fifteen.
MACCONNACHIE SIGNS FOR BLUES
May 8, 1914. The Liverpool Courier.
There have been many removes regarding the severance of Macconachie the Everton captain from the Goodison park organisation but yesterday the full back once more appended his signature for the blues, there has indeed never been the slightest cause for anticipating that Macconnachie would leave Everton. He has been away in Scotland mainly in connection with his recent sad bereavement he sustained and the news that he has again signed on will be most welcome to his many admires
MACONNACHIE RESIGNS
May 8, 1914. The Evening Express
Everton Captain Not To Leave Goodison
By the Critic
At this period of the year the air is usually full of rumours regarding the movements of football players. At times rumour proves to be correct, but on many occasions the lying jade is miles wide of the mark. With regard to the Everton captain John Macconnachie, ever since the season closed various stories have reached me the favourite one being that the clever full back could not come to terms and that he would probably go to Ireland. As I have announced on several occasions, the secretary of the club Mr. W.C. Cuff, had not had an opportunity of seeing the captain as he had been away in Scotland. Macconnachie returned yesterday and as exclusively announced in the “Courier” and the “Express” this morning the player has again signed for the Everton club. Mr. Cuff completed the formal arrangements yesterday afternoon and he tells me there was never any doubt about the captain signing the necessary papers, and that there was no foundation whatever for the rumours which had been published. Macconnachie who has suffered bereavement in the death of his father, will be available next season and his many friends and admirers will be pleased to that he does not intend in sever his connection with the club to which now has proved both ornamental and useful.
ANOTHER EVERTON PLAYER FOR SCOTLAND
May 9, 1914. Liverpool Echo
Everton and St. Mirren would seem to have an understanding between each other. At fair number of signings of Everton men by the Scottish club have been secure, Magner, Davidson, and Brannick have joined St Mirren, and now Tom Page, the local centre half has signed for them. Page had been with Rochdale and Everton tried him in the Derby County match. He is a worrier, and can shoot hard, unfortunately he had trouble through an injury, otherwise he might never have left Everton.
JACK ALLEN
Coventry Evening Telegraph - Saturday 09 May 1914
The club have also obtained the signature of Jack Allen, centre forward, of Rochdale, whose capture the City has come as a big surprise to Rochdale people. Allen was with Everton for three seasons, and for one season Leeds City. He plaved for Rochdale last winter, scoring 28 goals in 20 matches. He is 24 years of age, 5ft. 8in. in height, and 11st. 10lbs. in weight.
A BIG TRANSFER FEE
May 11, 1914 Evening Telegraph
Arrangements have been completed for the transfer of James Galt, half-back of Rangers F.C, to Everton. Galt joined Rangers as a junior from Ardeer Thistle in 1908, and has been a prominent player with the club for the past six seasons. He has Scottish international caps against Wales, and Ireland, and plated for the Scottish League against the English league at Middlesbrough for season ago. Tall and full of dash, he is of the robust of player that should commenced itself in England. For some time it has been expected that he would change his quarters as earlier in the season to asked to be placed on the transfer list. The transfer is said to be one of the largest paid by Everton for a Scottish player. After a turn at Everton and with Glasgow Rangers Fulton returns to Morton next season to fill Craigs place at left back.
INTERNATIONAL FOR EVERTON
May 11, 1914. The Liverpool Echo
James Galt, the Glasgow Ranger, and Scottish international half-back for Everton. He was transferred on Saturday night, and the transfer fee, which is understood to be a considerable one, has not transpired. Galt joined Rangers in January 1906. He has been capped by the Scottish Association against Wales and Ireland and by the Scottish League against England and the Southern League. He plays either left half or centre half. He is a native of Saltcoats, is 5ft 11 ½ ins in height and weights about 13st. As well as being excellent in defence Galt is a good shot, and he is likely to prove a big acquisition at Goodison Park.
EVERTON CAPTURE
May 11, 1914. The Evening Express
Galt Ought to Succeed at Goodison
An Enterprising and Vigorous Half-Back.
By the Critic
Everton has not up to Saturday's figured largely in the transfer sensational, but it was felt that it was only the claim before the storm as it were, for the Everton directors are not the men to sit tight and do nothing. They have evidently been getting to business quietly, but none the less effectively and the signing of Galt, I am sure is only a preliminary to the acquisition of one or two more first-class exponents. Everton are determined to get together a strong side –strong in talent and build. It has been the falling –in the minds of many enthusiasts –of Everton teams that they lack vigour combined with skill, and are on the small side. whatever the general opinion on this point may be that is no doubt that in signing Galt they have obtained a player who never fail to throw vigour into his play, and this added to his undoubted skill makes him a most desirable acquisition. Galt stand 5ft 11 ½ inches in heights and weights 13 stone. He will undoubtedly prove a source of strength next season.
An Enterprising Player
Everton have undoubtedly secured a clever half-back for next season by signing Jimmy Galt, the popular Ranger and Scottish international, writes my Glasgow correspondent. The news of his departure from Ibrox has been received with feelings of disappointment by the club's followers. Certainly it was not entirely unexpected for there was talk towards the close of the season that Jimmy was to be fixed up for Goodison, but as nothing transpired at the time, it was thoughts that Dame Rumour had been a lying jade. This however, has not proved to be the case. Galt is a finished exponent of the game, with a good understanding of a half-back's duties. He is more of the English than the Scottish type of footballer, and combines rare skill and judgment with vigoiur dash and enterprise. He is by no means a “canny Scott,” for while his play is marked by that method and precision which is characteristic of football across the border as evidence at the recent international at Hampden Park –Galt is extremely robust and foreable. He should prove a great acquisition to the ranks of the Everton club as his style of play is admirably suited to Soccer in English First League circles. Galt is quietly at home at centre half or left half although the latter position is his favourite one. A clever breaker up, he also often breaks up dangerous incursions into his opponents territory, feeds his wings forwards mastererly and gives them splendid backing. If an opportunity presents itself, too, he does not hesitate to have a pop at goal, and during his stay at Ibrox has found the net on several occasions. He is a great fighter, dour and determined and along with Alex Bennett and Alex Smith, formed what was at one time the strongest left wing combination across the Tweed. Galt has enjoyed a fair share of international honours and in the season which has just closed represented his country against Ireland and Wales and against the English League.
Alarm in Glasgow
Glasgow enthusiast are seriously alarmed at the possibility of Everton running all with another well-known and perhaps even more popular Light Blue. It is well known fact that Jimmy Gordon, who has figured both at back and half-back in representative games, for Scotland is an cause partnership with Everton's new recruit. Between then they managed two well appointed billiard saloons in the city of St. Mungo and the idea is abroad here that where the one player goes the other may be expected to follow. Indeed one astute newsboy, who had been putting two and two together, felt so convinced of this that his shout was “Sensational Captures by Everton!” and while only the transfer if Galt was reported in his edition, he magnanimously informed his patrons that both Gordon and Galt had signed for Everton, for as he explained, “everybody” knows that Jimmy Galt and Jimmy Gordon eye gang together. Perhaps they do. But I fancy Gordon has proven such a handy man to the Rangers that the Ibrox management will not care to dispense with his service. Gordon is one of the most versatile players in Scotland and, as occasion required has occupied almost every position in the Rangers team. His correct position of course, is at half-back but he has given several sterling display at Ibrox, while I have seen him snatch a very good goal when figuring at inside right.
GALT SIGNS FOR EVERTON
May 11 1914. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
The Everton football club made one of the most important captures of the close season, which has marked by sensational transfer the deal was completed on Saturday evening (may 9), a result of which James Galt the international half back of Glasgow rangers will next September be seen in a blue jersey at Goodison park. Galt has been associated with the famous Scottish club since January 1906, and has been capped for Scotland against Wales and Ireland and has also played for the Scottish league against English league and also southern league. The amount of the transfer fee has not been disclosed, but in view of the high standing of the player, and the figures which recently been paid for other men of note, it can be judged to have been considerable. The new player is equally at home either left half or centre half, and his services ought to be of immense value to Everton football club in a department which has been sorely weakened by the departure of Val Harris, Galt services have been sought after by several English clubs
T. PAGE JOINS ST. MIRREN
May 11, 1914. The Liverpool Courier.
T page still another Everton player has gone to Scotland, for St Mirren who have had more than one ex-blue in their ranks, have secured the services of tom page, the inside forward, who did so well at Goodison park in the early part of the season.
EVERTON NEW PLAYER
May 14, 1914. The Liverpool Echo
McFadyen's Career and His Ability
Charles McFayden went to North End seven years ago as a Scottish junior international, and almost immediately got the reversion of Derbyshire's place as partner to Rodway. He soon made progress as a back of the fearless type with something of the Jack Ross about him, tackling with great vigour and dash, and kicking well with either foot; which he could fill either position equally well. Later he developed the McCracken offside with great skill; but this was a policy really foreign to his temperament and style, and he was always a better footballer when playing his normal direct football. He got his leg broken as most people now know at Blackburn on Christmas Day and during his convalescence obtained the record benefit for Preston, the £200 guaranteed is the club being increased to £4000 by outside efforts and extra percentage of gates. His accident has not affected the limb so far as length goes as is often the case, although it had to be reset once or twice and if temperament has anything to do with a man's resumption of football under such circumstances, McFadyen will play again if it is humanly possible, for he does not know what nerves or fear are. And if he does get sound once more he will sender Everton fine service, for there is no more on the board he is not converted with. It may here be mentioned that two years ago, Everton were at Preston, and bargained after that match for certain of the Preston half back. “Boe” that day suggested that McFadyen be transfer would then he worth waiting for.
A DIRECTOR RESIGNS
May 15, 1914. The Liverpool Echo
The Everton Clubs Affairs
For some days there has been a rumour in the local football circles. The statement was that would be another “hot” Everton A.G.M. and that election of directors would result n a surprise. As I said a few days ago, the retiring directors were Messrs J. Davies, H. Wright, and H. Allman, and newcomers to face the electronics were Messrs Herbert Halsall, and Nicholls. This morning I am able to announce exclusively that one of the retiring directors has decided that he will not seek re-election. Mr. Allman has decided on the course, and his letter on the point is as follows;-
“Though the medium of your columns I desire to acquaint my many friends that I am not desirous of seeking re-election for the board of the Everton Football Club. I have been approached to allow my name to go, forward by a club ‘large section of shareholders but after careful consideration I have decided to withdraw my candidature. In so doing I desire to call attention to the lamentable state of affairs on the Everton board, which is directly reflected in the position our club is occupying today, particularly in the playing sense. It is unnecessary to point out, as it is common knowledge that the present club’s directorate are not pursuing the policy of their predecessors. In the old days to be a member of the board was an honour in reality and in the football would the name of Everton stood in the very highest esteem. Those days seem to have vanished and with the advent of bickering, pretty jealously and dissensions on the board I welcome the opportunity of dissociating myself from a party whose ultimate efforts I feel sure, unless the shareholders are careful, will lead the club, which we have for years diligently supported to almost irrecoverable disaster. One has only to review the last twelve months to glean an idea of the state of affairs existing and it cannot be weakened at that the late chairman as a matter of pure conviction resigned the chairmanship. The club appears to got into such a groove that practically all the business of the board is out and dried by outsiders so that there is hardly any need for the existence of any board of directors.
Under the circumstances I trust that the shareholders will see that an end will be put to the existing regime and a return made to the odd policy. During last year I regret that owing to a long series of domestic troubles and bereavement I have not been able to devote the same amount of time to the business of the club as formerly. I take this opportunity of expressing my thanks to the many shareholders for their expressions of sympathy during the time of my trouble. I believe that it was Mr. Allman’s intention some time ago to seek re-election and he had, with the help of friends, been working with his customary energy. Mr. Allman gained a place on the board at the expense of Mr. Bainbridge some three years ago and no one could doubt his sincerity and his determined effort in the cause of the club. He secured the country in an endeavour to find players. Originally he was a member of what was known as “The Syndicate” but be broke away from the party and has since been an independent. Without a doubt the bereavement he sustained caused his football work to be curbed somewhat.
“True Blue” writes on the installment system for Everton’s season tickets – could you place in your column the prices of the stand tickets for the coming season of the above club. Is there a fixed amount for each ticket, or can you pay in as much as you wish say 1s one week a 6d another. “The correspondent should see Page I advertisement. The prices are fixed and read 8s, 6d for ground tickets 10s 6d for self to 1s stand 15s self and lady to 1s stand. 15s for self to 8s stand, 21s for self and lady to 2s for self to 3s stand, 25s for self and lady to 3s stand. The payment’s can be of any amount but the full sum must be paid up by August 31.
TEAM WORKING
May 15, 1914. The Liverpool Echo
Among a number of letters on football affairs is one from “Indignant Shareholder,” who writes
“I am very surprised that no structures have been passed in the Press by shareholders in the Everton Club on the doings during the playing season recently completed. It is constantly long stated that Everton is the wealthiest club in the country but what have we to show for the assertion. A fine ground without a capable and winning team is of no interest to the supporters. “At the last annual meeting after a good deal of triumph blowing, certain changes were made in the management resulting in the resignation of an old and valued director and the leader of the new movement closed the proceedings with final words of “Now we know what to do.” The result of the changes have been. Dismissal by a third rate team in the initial round of the English cup and the retention by our position in the League First Division. What a deplorable not to say disgraceful position for the wealthiest club in the county. If this is the result of the management changes, then the quicker we have the old directors back with us to guide affairs the better for the club. At least the former powers always managed to gain for us a respectable place in the League and kept us forward un the cup-tie with three successive appearances in the semi-final including two final ties, one of which as you know, we won. Prior in this season we have always enjoyed a good standard of football but this season it has been contiguous by its absence. I do not wish to blame the players who are quite capable enough, but the irritating manner of chopping and changing the players at the season’s commencement, without giving the men time to settle into their game, apparently had the effect o unsettling them with disastrous results to the club. “I must apologies for troubling you at such length but the existing state of affairs calls for strong comment. It is very plain to see that a continuance of present methods will land us next season in the Second Division.”
“Evertonians” asks “Why don’t Everton try for Buck of West Bromwich Albion.” He is on the transfer fee. But Evertonians” surely forgets Buck’s age. Besides there is no need for further strength at centre half with Fleetwood, Galt, Wareing, and Co, at the service of the club. In any case surely another Midland man, Chris Buckley, would be a wiser purchase –if the club does want a centre half back.
“Liverton” writes –if Everton are looking for a good inside left, they should try for Stonley, of the Arsenal.
EVERTON’S HALF-BACK
May 16, 1914. The Evening Football Express
Chatty Interview With Jimmy Galt
The Transfer Fee
What Rangers Asked For Scotland’s Captain
James Galt, the Scottish international half-back secured by Everton from Rangers, cost the Goodison club a pretty penny (writes our Glasgow correspondent). And yet the sum is small compared with the transfer fees paid by certain clubs for players who are not in my opinion one whit superior to the Everton recruits. Galt (only) cost Everton £1,400 –exactly half the record price paid last week by Manchester City for Barnes of DerbyCounty. An indicated during the week, Everton were on the track of another Rangers “star” Mr. Cuff has his eye on Jimmy Gordon, but found the Ibrox managerement were not disposed to part with their popular and versatile player. Guess the price placed on Gordon’s head by his present club? You cannot. Well, I’ll tell you –and be prepared to rub your eyes when you see the figure -£3,000. Yes; three thousand pounds! That makes Galt’s transfer fee look ridiculously small. And it also shows why Everton did not secure Jimmy Gordon, for it is well known that the Goodison Park directors are averse to paying “fancy” prices for new players. And quite right too, I think. The best policy on which to proceed is to secure players “in the making” ad produce your own finished article. Take the case of the famous Scottish combination Glasgow Celtic. This club has a regular little nursery where they rear their own players, and so efficiently and successfully is it managed that they can afford to let famous exponents of the game slip out of their ranks and without paying a farthing almost for transfer fees, fill their places with young recruits without impairing the playing strength of the team in the slightest degree.
Interview With Galt
A Glasgow correspondent of a weekly contemporary, today, gives the following account of an interview he had with Everton’s new half-back;- Got big Jimmy Galt in his Paisley-road shop on Monday morning. He was looking as fresh as a daisy and as fit as a fiddle. And so you’re off this time? I ventured. And ain’t you sorry –sorry to leave Glasgow?
Well, now, I am sorry to leave the city – And the Rangers? I chipped in.
Ah! I’m not just so sure about that, although I have very many pleasant memories of Ibrox. And yes – I like the Rangers crowd, I’ll miss their hearty support. Now, James, please tell me the real reason of your chucking the Light Blues? The football public are dying to know.
The time had come when it was better for us to part. That’s the truth.
You’ll have made a decent bit out of the transfer fee?
I get a third of the sum paid by Everton to Rangers.
How much did they pay? Tell me that, and I’ll manage to find out the share.
And I don’t think
Then you’ll have your £10 from the Toffees for signing on?
Pal With Bobby Parker
Yes- and the rest; but these are private matters about which you have no business.
Rangers offered you terms to stop?
They did, but I didn’t think them good enough after eight years service.
You’ve been that period at Ibrox?
Ys, went there as a junior from Ardeer Thistle, and am still a bit on the right side of thirty.
Looking forward to a good time in England?
If you man doing my best for Everton, them I certainly am.
You’ll pal with Bobby Parker, I suppose?
I will. In fact, we have already arranged to “dig” together. Bobby is liking England immensely.
Things haven’t been going very pleasantly at Ibrox of late, Jamies?
Have they not? They did, but I didn’t think them good enough after eight years service.
You’ve been that period at Ibrox?
Ys, went there as a junior from Ardeer Thistle, and am still a bit on the right side of thirty.
Looking forward to a good time in England?
If you man doing my best for Everton, them I certainly am.
You’ll pal with Bobby Parker, I suppose?
I will. In fact, we have already arranged to “dig” together. Bobby is liking England immensely.
Things haven’t been going very pleasantly at Ibrox of late, Jamies?
Have they not? You seem to know. But I’m not to discuss Ibrox affairs. I’m finished there, and that’s enough. What about your Glasgow business interests when you’re in England football?
Mr. Cuff To Buy A Golf Course for Him
They’ll be all right. I’ll see to that. I have the privilege of coming north every here weeks, if I care but I don’t think I’ll care, as I’m out to play football first. Even so, my Glasgow interest will be in first class hands, and I’ll be back to stop by and bye. Everton have done handsomely by me, and I’ll do duty to them.
Your position in the Goodison eleven is to be?
Centre half
Your height and weight
5-11 ½ and under 13 stone.
Honours
In international and Inter-League games. Last year I played against Ireland and Wales and in the inter-league against England.
What about your gold in Liverpool?
Well get enough of it. Mr. Cuff said he might buy a course for me. I mean to live at Southport with Bobby Parker and there is plenty of golf to be had in that place.
I think I’ve asked you enough James?
I think so, too.
So I cleared and the big Salcoats lad got to work again.
JAMES H. GALT
May 16, 1914. The Liverpool Football Echo
The Career of Everton’s New Half-Back
Glasgow Rangers have had no more service able player than James H. Galt, since that able defender threw in his lot with the famous Light Blues on leaving Ardeer Thistle on 3rd January, 1906. Standing just under 6ft and weighing round about 13 stone, Galt was ever a dainty man and his psyche should stand him in good stead in English football. He was chosen by the League to play against England at Middlesbrough and the Southern League at Glasgow. There has been no half back more feared by Scottish forwards than James Galt, and he will not be long at Goodison Park until he proves even more formidable for while scrupulously fair Galt is always a trier and many right wingers will soon discover what John Simpson of Blackburn Rovers learned when playing with Falkirk –that the lanky half-back never knows when he is beaten. The new Everton player is a cut above the average professional and when not furthering his own interest as a billiard room owner, stationer, and tobacconist is giving a helping hand to any unfortunate brother professional. Whenever the professional player could be induced to lay something by for the proverbial rainy day, instead of spending as freely as if assured of twenty years service on the football field. A Liverpool “Echo” representative had a chat yesterday afternoon with Galt in Glasgow and the new Everton player who appeared the picture of health, said he was looking forward with pleasure to his connection with the Everton club. He has been greatly influence in signing for Everton by the remarks which he had received about the club and players from his pal Bobby Parker. For the past three years business affairs have taken up all Galt’s spare time but with him joining Everton he will be relieved of these, and as he said “I think my football will be a great deal better.” “In any case he continued “I will do my best for Everton and it will I hope be the beginning of long connection, I think my play is well suited to English football but whether I will be a success or failure remains to be seen.” Altogether Galt is a good sportsman. In addition to being a footballer of the best type, he is a first class golfer at which he has won many prizes in open competitions.
Note some of this article was impossible to read. And was left out.
EVERTON SIGN McFADYEN
May16, 1914. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
The Everton Football club have secured the signature of Mcfadyen the Preston north end full back, but the deal is not finitely completed for the reason that the management committee of the league still has the question of the transfer fee under consideration, it will be remembered that Mcfadyen was unfortunate enough to break his leg in a league match during the Christmas holidays and didn't play during the remainder of the season, he is making a good recovery however he was of course on Preston list, but the Deepdale club did not offer him a re-engagement and the position is therefore rather novel. His papers have been forward to Preston, and it remains to be seen whether the transfer will be completed Mcfayden objects to the fee placed on him and apparently the clubs and the management committee will have to settle the affair between them. Mcfayden is a dashing player of strong build, and before receiving the unfortunate injury he proved a tower of strength for the Deepdalians, if quite fit again there is little doubt that he would make his mark at Goodison.
FOUR HOURS' PLEADING.
Dundee, Perth, Forfar, and Fife's People Journal -Saturday 16 May 1914
Mr Cuffe's Most Eventful "Man-Hunt."
SIGNING BROTHERS WILSON.
I'VE met Mr W. C. Cuffc, the capable Everton manager, who has made such a big capture Galt, quite few times of late. I thought his experiences in his search for talent might be interesting. I wasn't disappointed. My most exciting man-hunt?” repeated Mr Cuffe. Substitute eventful' for exciting,' and I fancy was when I signed the brothers George and David Wilson a few years ago. "It happened like this : Everton wanted the two 'Tynecastlc footballers—and you know the saying that when the Goodison Park people want certain players they usually get them. Well, to Edinburgh Mr Dan Kirkwood and I travelled —not once, but four times, ere got anything like a good chance to talk to our men.
Our “Quarry” Warned
“And we had some talking to do, I tell you: in fact, it was only after all hour's eloquent persuasion that we induced the players to enter a hotel with us! “Our chief obstacle was the fact that our mission had leaked out, and the Tynecastle supporters had ‘got at' our quarry –actually made them promise to have nothing to do with us! However, once inside the hotel we thought the battle was won. But, upon my word, it had only begin! “For four mortal hours we coaxed, cajoled, flattered, and ‘told the tale' as it never was told before. And all to no purpose, as we were beginning to think.
What Did The Trick
“Just when we were beginning to give up hope the Citadel capitulated. That subtle argument, ‘you won't be away for ever, you know, and a ew hours can take you home if you don't like it' did the trick-plus the ‘bawbees,' of course. Naturally, Mr. Kirkwood and I were jubilant over the result –but Phil Kelso and at least a couple of Glasgow managers weren't. “I must say that had I been alone on the job I would have failed; but the fact that there were two of us pleading for hours at a stretch strengthened each of us considerably. Moral support, I would term it –but shut up your note-book, and come and have a snack!” We went.
EVERTON DIRECTOR'S RESIGATION.
May 16, 1914. The Liverpool Courier.
Mr. W.C. Cuff, the secretary of the Everton Club officially informs us, that Mr. H. Allman has intimated to the Everton Club that he will not seek re-election at the annual meeting of the club, which is likely to be held in the first week of June. Mr. Allman, along with Messrs. J. Davies, and H. Wright, are the retiring directors this year, and there are two other candidates, so that there will be four gentleman for three vacant seats. The new candidate are Messrs Halsall and Nicholls, the former of whom was connected with the Tranmere Rovers Club. It will be remembered that Mr. Allman replaced Mr. E. A. Bainbridge now a director of the Liverpool club, on the Everton board three years ago.
MORE ABOUT EVERTON SCHEME
May 18, 1914. The Liverpool Echo
Bee's Sports Notes
As it was announced through the “Echo” on Saturday Everton F.C are increasing their accommodation and are intending to make their compact ground good to hold 100,000 spectators. In order to increase the space for improvements at the Walton goal it was necessary to acquire the ownership of a whole street of houses which immediately adjoun the back of the stand. The board have secured the sum of purchase of twenty four houses. An upper deck stand will be erected at the Gwlady's street end of the ground and the shareholders stand will be transformed while below will be afforded additional and covered spaces for the sixpenny spectators. The ends of the present stands will be linked up with these new errections. The scheme will not be completed at once, but a portion of it will be begin in hand at the earliest moment. No ground in the country has the covered accommodation that Everton's has, and the new portion will truly help that position.
EVERTON’S BIG VENTURE.
Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette - Monday 18 May 1914
Everton have recently taken a bold step in the direction of again improving their ground, Gootdison Park is already a fine enclosure, but it is to be improved almost beyond compare. Recognising that certain alterations to the present shareholders stand and the goal stand which faces the double-decker goal were urgently needed, the directors have decided to start their scheme for making the ground capable of holding 100,000 persons.
EVERTONS GROUND EXTENSION.
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 19 May 1914
As already announced, the Everton Football Club have a project in hand to enlarge they ground at Goodison Park so that it will be able to accommodate 100,000 spectators. In order to increase the space for improvements at the Walton goal it is necessary to acquire the owership of a whole street of houses which immediately adjoin the bacl of the stand. The board have secured the option of purchase of twenty-four houses. An upper deck stand will be erected at the Gwladys Street end on the ground, and the shareholders stand will be transformed, whiole below will be afforded additional and covered space for its sixpenny spectators. The ends of the present stands will be linked up with three new errections. the scheme will not be completed at once, but a portion of it will be put in hand at the earliest moment. No ground in the country has the covered accommodation that Everton has, and the new portion will considerably help that position.
EVERTON PLAYER GOES GAINSBOROUGH.
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 23 May 1914
John Page, the ex-Rochdale and Everton player, has been signed by Gainsborough a sturdy player, and should suit Gainsborough well for a number of years.
WOLSTENOLMES NEW COACH FOR GERMANY
May 25 1914. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
It will interest many in this district to learn that Sam Wolstenholmes the international and ex-Everton right half, has secured a position as trainer and coach to the Germany football association. Wolstenholmes was also associated with Blackburn rovers and his services should do much to raise the status of association football in the fatherland.
OLD EVERTONIAN'S ACCIDENT
May 29, 1914. The Liverpool Echo
Bee's Notes
Albert Flewitt, formerly s First Division footballer, who played for Everton, West Bromwich, and also Bristol, fell three storeys whilst cleaning windows at Nottingham yesterday. The labber slipped, and Flewitt, after catching at a bay window, fell heavily to the ground and was taken to the Nottingham Hospital, severely injury. Flewitt went through the South African War.
Old Evertonian's Accident.
Liverpool Echo - Friday 29 May 1914
Albert Flewitt, formerly a First Division footballer, who played for Everton, West Bromwich. and also Bristol, fell three storeys whilst cleaning windows at Nottingham yesterday. The ladder slipped, and Flewitt, after catching at bay window, fell heavily to the ground and was taken to the Nottingham Hospital severely injured. Flewitt went through the South African War.
A WORD WITH EVERTON F.C.
May 30, 1914. The Liverpool Football Echo
An Unwieldy Board and its Detrimental Effect
The Club With The Money
Answers To Correspondents.
Sceptic (Liverpool), -Yes, Everton is the richest club in the country. They have won the League once and the Cup once. We cannot tell you why they haven't gained more honours. Your query on that score may be answered by the Everton secretary. On the other hand, it may not.
You can have your opinion as to whether that is a genuine answer to a genuine correspondent or not, but to save trouble I may say that I invented the query and answer myself. Nevertheless it represents what thousands of people all over the country, as well as in Liverpool, are asking themselves, for there can be no doubt that the comparative non-success of Everton in recent years has perplexed the faithful. Admittingly money cannot but success in football, but it can do a lot towards getting a toe hold on it. The club with the money can always go into the market for players with the comfortable feeling that it doesn't have to sit in a corner when the bidding begins, and if the rich club has sufficient knowledge to know the right men to get and if it is able to control its players and get the best out of them, it is bound to start with a big advantage over its rivals. Everton have had the money they have had the men, but the results have hardly been commensurate with the money spent or the men signed. Why is this thus, and what is the meaning of this thusness? The “Echo” (as well as other less distinguished sheets) is still replying with the usual money liable. Verily, the case of Everton is perplexing, and perhaps it may interest Liverpool people to hear what an outsider thinks of it all, an outsider who comes to a consideration of the Goodison question without having any bias one way r the other, who has no axe to grind, and who is not concerned about the relative rights of wrongs mixed up in the struggle between the Syndicate and the other fellows. Some of you doubtless have read Mark Twain's “Innocents Abroad,” in which there is a description of the life aboard the ship on which the Innocents journeyed from America to Europe. Twain mentions that when they were several days out he had recovered sufficiently from the landlubber's curse to come on deck and have a look round. He grew quite interested in the ship, and in an idle moment picked up a rope which was lying about. Nautical people, of whom I believe there are a few in Liverpool, may object that on board a well-conducted ship no ropes are lying about, and that anyway they aren't ropes, but have all distinctive names, but that doesn't matter. That is Mark Twain's story, not mine, and who am I that I should attempt to improve on Mark Twain. As he picked up this rope, a stern-looking gentleman in a cocked hat popped up from nowhere in particular and said, “Put that rope down” Twain put it down, and after a bit he asked a common sailor who the person in authority was. “That the starboard captain” was the reply,” A little later twain lifted something else and was told to put it down by another gentleman who he discovered was the port captain, and later he had similar experiences with the forecastle captain, the quarter-deck captain, the after-deck captain, and several other captains of various sorts and sizes. Then remarked Twain, “I have come to the conclusion that we are carrying enough captains to sink the ship, and among them they will probably do it.” This is supposed to be an analogy. My own opinion (I may be wrong) is that Everton are carrying too many skippers. Some humorist, it is not modesty which forbids my mentioning his name simply forgetfulness, remarked once that the ideal board of directors would consist of three men, one of them blind and another deaf and dumb. If that is so, then Everton have not an ideal board. I don't know how many directors Everton have, but none of them is blind, none id deaf and decidedly none is dumb. Those I have met are all wonderfully anxious for the welfare of the club, are mostly prepared to prepared top spend a treinendo is amounts of time on the club's business, and I am taking it for granted that those I don't know have similar aspirations. They have every chance in the world to get good results as I have explained previously, and yet the good results don't come. We are faced with the old “Why?” Now I suppose that everyone who reads this article has heard of the famous Syndicate, and a little reflection will reveal the fact that the very existence of that Syndicate is the clearest evidence that much of Everton's trouble begins in the Board-room. It is possible for a body of men; all eager to secure the advancements of a common cause, to differ so greatly regarding the best means of securing that advancement that the results is the opposite of what they intend. We are told that in a multitude of counsellors there is wisdom, but that remark was probably made by one of the multitude who very likely believed that most of the wisdom referred to was packed assay in his own grey matter. It's an open secret that in the pass Everton directors have disagreed on policy, and one does not used the wisdom of Solomon to know that disagreement in the board-room is generally reflected in the play of the men on the field. As I have said I don't know which side is right or which is wrong, all I know is that both sides by quarrelling among themselves are doing the club harm despite their well-means intentions of doing it good, and my advice to the Everton shareholders is to elect a board which will work harmoniously, no matter which side that board comes from, and the results will be satisfactory. Nobody has asked me for my advice on this matter, so that it is just possible that someone will pay some attention to it. It's a curious thing that when we ask for a person's advice we do so simply that we may be encouraged in our own determination to do the opposite. Now let us look at some of the more pleasing features of the Everton club. I make no pretence of doing anything like justice to the glorious past of the club, for that is not the purpose of these articles, and thus I do not propose to go back to the old days when Everton players at Anfield and had a row over something or other which led to the formation of Liverpool and the subsequent arrival in the city of Tom Watson, although the last mentioned fact is so important and pleasing that it certainly services as some justification for the spilt and is worthy of an article in itself. Everybody in Liverpool knows that the cartoonists of the country usually portray Everton as an old lady with a basket over her arm, and I have seen that same old lady pictured in Liverpool boarding's many times. Some years ago one Liverpool director did tell me, more in sorrow than in anger that Everton were the luckiest club in the world, as well as being the richest, for they always got good weather for their home matches, while when Liverpool played at Anfield the rain descended in lumps. He couldn't explain it; but I found a solution. For years there have been notices on the walls at Goodison to this effect –“Spectators entering the ground take their own risk of the weather, and no money will be returned –By order of W.C. Cuff, secretary.” That was quite enough to do it for there was no doubt that the clerk of the weather must have been impressed by Mr. Cuff, no less than by his fearless independence and thus Everton have been saved the attentions of the man who wields the onlential watering-can. If I were weather Clark, and Will Cuff said, “Blow your weather.” No money will be returned; I would be impressed. Mr. Cuff is impressive. He is the Beau Brummel of the football world, and everybody wonders whether it is true that he never wears a suit of clothes more than once, of whether sometimes he wears it twice. I know one football secretary who after a visit to Goodison, went straight home and wanted to order a new suit, but had to cancel the order because at the moment his trial or could not afford it. For my own part –If I may introduce the personal note –I do not envy Will Cuff his cloths,. I have a suit for every day in the week. I am wearing it now. In one matter Everton lead all their competitors. Their ground is the best in the country for the average man, there are bigger grounds, and there are grounds which look prettier; but there is none where there is not much covered accommodation. Everton have realised that despite the opinion of there neighbours across the park, they may get a wet day or two and they have given the average man a chance to view the game without getting soaked through. Whatever they have spent in that direction has been returned to them a hundredfold. To the outsider the Everton crowd is peculiar, because of the habit they have to barracking their own men. That to my mind is a hugh mistake; and I could tell you of several ex-Evertonans, who were glad to leave Goodison because the crowd didn't give them a chance. When one thinks of Everton's position and their prosperity of their great ground and their magnificent following, one cannot help the feeling that there ought to be in the running for everything, every year, and the fact that they are not monopolising all the honours must still remain a mystery. Some day things will come smoothly for Everton, and then we shall see what we shall see. Burns Campbell.
Albert Flewitt
Birmingham Mail - Monday 01 June 1914
Albert Flewitt, a former member of Bromwich Albion, and later with Everton and Lincoln City is lying seriously ill at the Nottingham Hospital, as the result of fall from a three storey building, through the slipping of a ladder. In his fall he struck the top of a bay window.
BEARE LIKELY TO JOIN SOUTHERN CLUB.
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 13 June 1914
Beare the outside-left, formerly of Blackpool, and for four seasons at Everton, is likely lo join a Southern League club. Negotiations are in progress for the transfer, but as Beare is it not af home (Southampton) at the moment, the name of the club cannot yet be divulged.
JACK BELL
July 18, 1914 Birmingham Gazette
Preston North End F.C have appointed Jack Bell, their old Scottish International forward, who previously played with Everton and Celtic, as coach to the club. During the last two years Bell has been following his occupation as an engineer in Canada and returned to England three weeks ago.
May 1914