**Everton will unveil a memorial to Gary Speed on the latest anniversary of his death.**
Thursday marks 14 years since the popular former midfielder’s untimely passing and just days before his boyhood club will host his ex-employers Newcastle United.
David Moyes’ side welcome the Magpies to Hill Dickinson Stadium for Saturday’s Premier League encounter and are set to introduce a lasting tribute to Speed.
A talking bench has been installed within the grounds of the Blues’ home as a simple but powerful way to encourage conversations around mental health issues.
It is dedicated in honour of Speed, whose family have given their full blessing to the inscription: ‘In Memory of Gary Speed, Evertonian, Captain, Leader 1969-2011’.
Located centrally on the Budweiser Fan Plaza, the bench includes discreet signposting to professional mental health support services and crisis resources.
A QR code provides direct access to the mental health programmes delivered by Everton in the Community, including The People’s Place – the first purpose-built mental health and wellbeing hub created by a Premier League club in 2023.
Trained Everton in the Community staff will be based in the area around the bench before every home fixture as part of a commitment to the Premier League’s ‘Together Against Suicide’ pilot.
Supporters who wish to talk, seek support, or learn more about the services available will be able to approach staff confidentially and without appointment.
The installation of a talking bench was proposed by the Everton Fans’ Forum, who wanted to create a meaningful and positive legacy in Speed’s name.
His family will visit the bench ahead of the game as part of the unveiling.
Everton legend Neville Southall, Speed’s former team-mate for club and country, said: “You would never associate Gary with a bench, because he was a fella who seemed to have everything.
“But in many respects it’s very apt.
“If you sit there and think everybody else’s life is perfect, you can reflect on a man who was a wonderful footballer and a great manager – but still had his own problems.”
Dave Wycherley, Everton Fans Forum vice-chair, added: “We wanted to remember Gary Speed in the most constructive way, and we hope this bench becomes a lasting legacy.
“Problems feel lighter when shared, and Everton has always been a club where supporters mix, talk, and escape life’s pressures for a while.
“Football brings out community at its best, and being outdoors helps those conversations come naturally.”