David Moyes wants Everton back ‘where we belong’ after ‘incredible’ Goodison Park farewell in Premier League win over Southampton
Updated 18/05/2025 at 18:29 GMT+1
David Moyes reflected on a hugely emotional day for Everton, as the men's team made a moving farewell to Goodison Park. The Toffees claimed a comfortable 2-0 win over Southampton to mark the occasion, and the Scotsman laid down the gauntlet in his desire to propel Everton back to the top end of English football. Moyes' side end the season away at Newcastle United on May 25.
‘What a goal’ – Ndiaye sends Goodison wild with ‘absolutely beautiful’ finish
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David Moyes is determined to bring the good times back to Everton after an emotional farewell to Goodison Park.
Iliman Ndiaye’s brace sealed a 2-0 win over already-relegated Southampton in the club’s final men’s game at the stadium, and Moyes feels the only way is up after a teary goodbye to one of English football’s most iconic venues.
The Toffees will move into the Hill Dickinson Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock in August, and Moyes is looking ahead to the future in his desire to ensure the club are competing amongst England’s elite once again.
When asked about the day itself, Moyes said on TNT Sports: "It was incredible. The reception from outside the stadium was just unbelievable. Within it, it was incredible, so to you all [the fans], it was fantastic.
"You're going to see the stadium out brilliantly well, your support has been amazing today, it always has been. But now you have to bring it to the new one, that's the next part."
Moyes is in his second spell in charge of the club after replacing Sean Dyche in January. His return to Merseyside came almost 12 years since leaving the job to take charge of Manchester United.
When reflecting on his first appointment to the job in March 2002, he added: "The first time I came here was incredibly opportunistic for me, because Sir Phillip Carter and Bill Kenwright gave me the chance to manage the great club.
"But David Unsworth at the other end got a goal for me inside the opening minute [Moyes’ first match was a 2-1 win over Fulham], which made a huge difference to me and my career.
"But we had unbelievable times here over the years and we need to start rebuilding again. This club to me felt like one which was a big family, looked broken, felt broken, it doesn't feel like that anymore."
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The 62-year-old also took the opportunity to issue a rallying cry to the club’s owners - The Friedkin Group - highlighting the potential of what can be achieved on Merseyside.
Moyes said: "I hope the owners are recognising what they're seeing today as well to get us back to where we belong and we believe we should be.
"There's a hundred great players here today, who have played some great games as part of some great teams. We have to try and make that happen again here.
"Goodison Park will always be remembered for one thing; the people. The people at the club make it, you always have done, you'll have the chance to make it for the next stadium. We need every one of you there, the same as today. First game of next season, we need you right there at it to help us."
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'An incredible captain' - Moyes pays tribute to Coleman and reflects on Goodison Park legacy
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'What a legend' - Pickford pays Coleman tribute
Jordan Pickford gave a moving tribute to club captain Seamus Coleman after the match.
The Irishman led out The Toffees on an emotional day for the blue half of Merseyside, but was forced off injured inside the opening 20 minutes.
Coleman gave the armband to Pickford for the remainder of the game, and the goalkeeper spoke of his mixed emotions in captaining the side in the legendary defender’s absence.
He told TNT Sports: "Really proud [to wear armband], a great moment. I know he's come off injured, but it was all about Seamus.
"He came out with his three kids, he's led us out today, and I've had to take the reins. It's something I'm really proud of. I'm just a little bit gutted for Seamus because of how much it means to him, how much effort he puts in.
"What a legend and character he is. He drives Everton forward as a club with all the players. I'm proud of carrying it on afterwards, but I was a bit gutted for Seamie."
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Ndiaye capitalises on ‘shocking’ defending to grab second goal for Everton
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