Senior players have taken to social media to thank the outgoing director of football for his work at the club
Everton interim chief executive officer Colin Chong looks on next to director of football Kevin Thelwell during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Everton and Peterborough United at Goodison Park. Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Everton interim chief executive officer Colin Chong looks on next to director of football Kevin Thelwell during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Everton and Peterborough United at Goodison Park. Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Several Everton stars paid tribute to the role played at Everton by Kevin Thelwell following confirmation he would leave the club in the summer.
The director of football will depart at the end of the season after three years at Finch Farm, his move coming with his contract set to expire but amid a swathe of changes as new owners The Friedkin Group continue to remodel the club’s sporting and business structures.
Thelwell released a classy statement to Everton supporters on Monday, in which he reflected on the turbulence of his tenure, through which he has helped steer the club through relegation battles, points deductions and boardroom crises.
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His words sparked a public response from a number of players, including Idrissa Gueye and Tim Iroegbunam - both of whom are among the signings he made across his six transfer windows in post.
Gueye took to X, formerly Twitter, to write of his return to Merseyside after a stint at Paris Saint Germain: “Coming back to Everton felt like coming home, and I have to thank Kevin Thelwell for making that happen. From day one, he showed how much he cared about this club, always fighting to make it stronger, even in the toughest times. We all know the challenges Everton has faced the last three years, but through it all, Kevin gave everything to help the team move forward.
“Everton is more than just a football club, it’s an institution built by the people who give their heart and soul to it. Everyone who comes here plays a part in its history and growth. Kevin has definitely left his mark. Wishing him the best for what’s next.”
Iroegbunam, who joined Everton this summer after a deal built around video calls with Thelwell while the midfielder was on holiday in Greece, added: “Done more than people will ever know - thanks for giving me the opportunity to play for this great club.”
Thelwell namechecked Iroegbunam as one of the young players he hoped would help to take it forward over the coming years.
Aboulaye Doucoure was already at Everton when Thelwell arrived in February 2022. His goals have been crucial to maintaining the club’s top flight status during Thelwell’s tenure and he also took time to show his appreciation for his work.
Doucoure wrote: “Thanks a lot Kev for your dedication and support! You’ve been a big part of this club staying up during his most difficult time. I enjoyed working with you and wish all the best in the future!”