Ratcliffe: Help old Toffees
EVERTON legend Kevin Ratcliffe has made a Merseyside derby appeal to not forget the former Goodison Park heroes who have fallen on hard times.
He has saluted the club in handing over £400,000 from season ticket and lounge members foregoing their refunds for the final five home games to the Blue Family Campaign, which looks after the underprivileged.
But he feels former players have missed out.
The £400,000 donation was also matched by owner Farhad Moshiri and chairman Bill Kenwright with the money helping to pay for food, heating and other facilities for the less well off in the area.
“It’s a fantastic gesture and it’s great what Everton continue to do throughout the community,” he said.
“But I think that sometimes the hardships of former players are forgotten.
“Everton have an ex-players’ association, which tries to look after members who have fallen on hard times, but they need funds as well to provide assistance.
“Season-ticket holders could have had the choice of whom to donate their money to. I’m sure, if they knew more about the plight of some of the players they have watched in the past, then the exfootballers’ association would have benefited.
“The club could send out a text message with the different options, allowing the fans to make their choice or choices.”
“At every club there are players from the past who are struggling financially, but they are forgotten and often need help.”