Everton FC legend Graeme Sharp salutes John Norman

Feb 4 2010 by Mark Johnson, Crosby Herald

EVERTON legend Graeme Sharp paid tribute to late Crosby man John Norman who watched the Toffees for more than eight decades.

‘Everton’s greatest fan’ John, who was 91, watched Dixie Dean hit his landmark 60th goal for the Blues in 1928 and was still going to watch his beloved Toffees this season.

Former Blues striker Sharp told the Herald: “To have been watching Everton for so long is an amazing testament to one man’s loyalty.

“John was an incredible supporter who saw all the greats during a lifetime of supporting the Blues and, on behalf of everyone connected with the club, I would like to offer sincere condolences to all his family and friends.

“I am sure he will be greatly missed.”

John died following a fall at his home on Kimberley Drive, Crosby, and his funeral took place last Tuesday at St Peter and Paul’s church, in Waterloo.

The service was well attended and amongst the gathering of mourners was the club’s former keeper Gordon West.

Daughter Margaret Burgess told the Herald: “He was a great Everton fan and had a Bullens Road stand season ticket.

“He would go to watch them play away games up until he was 70 with his mates.

“He always liked going to Burnley because he liked the pies there.

“He would speak to the players and he loved Alex Young.

“His recent favourite player was Duncan Ferguson and the 1985 Cup Winners’ Cup triumph meant a lot to him. I just hope Everton beat Liverpool on Saturday for him.”

In an interview last year with the Liverpool Echo John told of his Dixie Dean memories. He said: “It was the match when he scored his 60th league goal.

“I was only nine and my uncle and my dad took it in turns to put me on their shoulders.

“I only have a vague recollection of the game now, but I do remember being puzzled when Dean went off before the final whistle and asking my dad where he’d gone.