Players, staff and supporters from Everton and Bolton Wanderers honoured the lifelong Blue
Noah Johnson died aged 15 from a severe asthma attack
Noah Johnson died aged 15 after suffering a severe asthma attack(Image: Everton FC)
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Everton and Bolton Wanderers have paid an emotional tribute to a teenage fan after he died from a rare and severe asthma attack. Noah Johnson, 15, died on June 11 after suffering an unpredictable attack at home.
He had lived with the rare condition eosinophilic brittle asthma, a severe, hard-to-control asthma where high levels of white blood cells cause persistent airway inflammation.
Players, staff and supporters from both clubs honoured the lifelong Blue during the friendly match at the Toughsheet Community Stadium on Saturday, July 25. Noah's parents, Ryan and Chloe, along with his brother Evan and sister Evie, were invited as special guests for the occasion.
Before kick-off, the family met Everton players including Noah's hero James Tarkowski, Beto, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Michael Keane, while manager David Moyes personally offered his condolences. Club ambassador Ian Snodin also spent time with the family.
James Tarkowski, Beto, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Michael Keane with Noah's family
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, James Tarkowski, Michael Keane and Beto with Noah's family(Image: Everton FC)
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A photograph of Noah and his name were displayed on the stadium's big screen before the match, while supporters from both clubs rose to applaud in the 15th minute in tribute to the young Evertonian. In the away end, Blues supporters unfurled a large banner bearing Noah's name.
Speaking afterwards, Noah's dad Ryan thanked both clubs for what he described as an unforgettable gesture.
He said: "I can't thank Everton and Bolton enough for what they have done for my family.
"Saturday was the first time I've actually watched football since Noah died, as football was the thing that we did together.
"Seeing his name on the big screen before the game, then everyone clapping in his honour and the Everton fans lifting up that banner was just something I can't describe, but it was lovely."
Noah had received specialist care throughout his life at Royal Manchester Children's Hospital after being born with eosinophilic brittle asthma.
Everton's tribute to 15-year-old Noah
Everton's tribute to 15-year-old Noah(Image: Everton FC)
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Despite being unable to take part in sport during much of his childhood because of the severity of his asthma, he was determined to play football. His perseverance eventually saw him earn a place in his school team before later being named captain.
Ryan said: "I never thought I'd see him kick a football, but he was a fighter and was determined that he was going to play football eventually.
"When his PE teacher picked him for the school football team, it was amazing. I never thought I'd see him run around kicking a football, never mind be picked for school, but to be picked as captain as well was something unbelievable."
Football had become a huge part of Noah's life and his bond with Everton grew even stronger during the pandemic when he received a surprise phone call from Jordan Pickford while recovering at home.
He was later invited to Goodison Park as a mascot for Everton's Premier League meeting with Newcastle United, walking out alongside his idol Tarkowski.
Noah walking alongside his idol James Tarkowski
Noah walking alongside his idol James Tarkowski(Image: Everton FC)
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Following Noah's death, the Everton captain also visited the family home to offer his condolences in person.
The tribute against Bolton held particular significance for the Johnson family, with many of Noah's relatives supporting Wanderers. Ryan and his son had long looked forward to seeing the two clubs meet again.
Reflecting on the day, Ryan added: "The club couldn't have done any more.
"Meeting all the players, and Snods, was amazing and they all genuinely wanted to come and speak to us. David Moyes had some kind words and he knew all about Noah and his love for Everton and football.
"I'll never forget Noah walking out with Tarky. He was wholehearted and loved watching Tarky because he's somebody who puts his body on the line. Noah sort of became that kind of player.
"He was a titan on the pitch and my best mate off it."