A statue celebrating Everton’s ‘Holy Trinity’ has been unveiled at Goodison Park.
The bronze structure depicting Howard Kendall, Colin Harvey and Alan Ball was revealed ahead of the Blues’ final home game of the season against Burnley.
Local sculpture Tom Murphy was commissioned to create the tribute to the iconic midfield trio, who were the driving force in Everton’s 1970 title-winning success.
Harvey and the families of the late Kendall and Ball were on hand for the ceremonial unveiling of the statue on Goodison Road, outside St Luke’s Church.
The Liverpool-born player, a boyhood Evertonian who grew up a short distance from Goodison, later served as manager and Kendall’s assistant in the 1980s.
“It’s very unusual to have a statue done of you while you’re still alive. It’s a fantastic feeling and a fantastic sculpture,” said Harvey.
“I used to live in the next street down from here and to actually have everyone come to see a statue of yourself is absolutely amazing.
“All my grandkids are here today as well – they took the day off school! – so it’s great to see them here. They’ve heard stories about me but obviously they never saw me play.”
Alan’s son Jimmy Ball admitted he was struck by the detail of the sculpture including the white boots that the World Cup winner wore in his playing days.
He said: “It’s a brilliant sculpture – very realistic to be fair! I think they all look great and the detail with the white Hummel boots!
“I didn’t know how I’d feel but it was overwhelming, quite emotional. The first thing that came into my mind was him facing the Gwladys Street.
“He always talked about scoring his first goal there: the crowd, the adulation and loving every minute of playing here.
“Their legacy will live on and they’ll be known together because they were great friends and great footballers together.”
Simon Kendall reflected on the affection that his late father held for Goodison, where his name already adorns the famous Gwladys Street End stand.
“It’s a surreal experience but it’s an absolutely incredible statue,” he said.
“Dad would have been delighted. It’s just a shame that he’s not here to see it for himself but he would’ve been delighted with it for sure.
“It’s a great symbol; the successful trio in midfield from the early 70s for all Evertonians to come and see.
“It’s a special moment for our family and definitely something that I’m dying to get my kids to see when we bring them over from the States.
“He would tell you that Goodison was his home. He loved the place, not only as a player but the three times coming back as a manager.
“He was honoured and privileged to play such a significant role in the history of Everton Football Club and this is just a fantastic fitting tribute to that contribution.”