There are classic Everton photographs that hardly need a caption, and this is one of them.
Harry Catterick stands among his players at Bellefield, football in his hands, while the group gathers around to listen. Behind them are a few houses, a modest training building and a patch of grass.
It is Everton during one of the greatest periods in the club’s history, although you would hardly know it from the surroundings.
Harry Catterick built great Everton side at Bellefield
The photograph was shared this week by The League Magazine and comes from Catterick’s time in charge at Goodison Park.
Catterick returned to Everton as manager in 1961, having previously played for the club, and quickly delivered success. Everton were First Division champions in 1962/63, won the FA Cup in 1966 and claimed another league title in 1969/70. Bellefield developed considerably during the same period.
When Catterick arrived, Everton’s training arrangements were still basic. Players reported to Goodison before travelling to Bellefield and then returned to the stadium afterwards for baths and lunch.
Catterick wanted everything in one place and, with chairman John Moores, oversaw a major redevelopment of the training ground. His vision was for what he called a “football factory”, where players could train, eat, receive treatment and prepare on the same site, which, of course, today, is the norm.
By 1966, Bellefield had been transformed. England manager Alf Ramsey was among those said to be impressed by the facilities, which were regarded as some of the best in the country.
That’s what makes the photograph so good. Nothing elaborate about it. Catterick has the ball, his players are gathered around him, and the houses behind Bellefield provide the backdrop.
Some of those players would soon help make Everton champions of England.
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