Everton’s Fan Advisory Board have made a plea around the club’s final game at Goodison Park.
David Moyes’ side are yet to discover when the last-ever match at their spiritual home will officially be played due to the Premier League’s lapsed scheduling.
But growing speculation has suggested that the visit of Southampton will be moved to Monday, May 19 due to the inevitable appeal of the occasion to TV audiences.
As a result of those concerns, the Fan Advisory Board has written to the Premier League and broadcasters to appeal for the game to remain on Sunday, May 18.
“Matchweek 37 presents a unique opportunity to recognise and prioritise the match-going fans, those who generate the atmosphere and vibrancy that sets English football apart on the global stage,” read the group’s open letter.
“We fully appreciate the complex competing priorities in the commercial world of broadcasting and the added pressure of having the FA Cup final on the Saturday, which understandably carries significant weight for scheduling purposes.
“However, at a time when there is considerable unrest in the fan community across the country, we believe this moment provides a chance to help honour a stadium that holds a unique place in the hearts and souls of spectators who have had the privilege of attending matches at ‘The Grand Old Lady’.
“Goodison Park has been the proud home of Everton Football Club for over 130 years, playing host to matches during the 1966 World Cup, including the semi-final, and welcoming legends such as Pele and Eusebio, who famously said ‘This stadium for me is the best stadium in my playing life’ – a powerful tribute to the historic and emotional weight the ground carries in football history.
“On behalf of Evertonians, football fans, players and staff both past and present we respectfully ask you to consider scheduling the broadcast of this historic match at a sensible time on Sunday, May 18th – a time that enables match-going fans to travel to and from the game at reasonable times, whilst ensuring the fullest possible participation, so that a passionate community can unite, and a global audience can join in the celebration of an iconic day in the heritage of the game.”