Former Everton and England defender Brian Labone has died aged 66. The ex-Toffee, whose playing career came to an end in the early 70s due to injury, was reportedly found dead on Monday night. Labone's career highlight was featuring in the 1970 World Cup in Mexico. The Liverpudlian started three of England's four games in the tournament as West Germany knocked The Three Lions out in the quarter finals.
Labone, who earned 26 caps for England, made 535 appearances for Everton scoring two goals for the Merseysiders between 1957 and 1971. "Everyone at the club is devastated," said Everton spokesman Ian Ross. "In the pantheon of Everton greats, Brian Labone is right up there with the very best. "He was one of the club's favourite sons and a hugely respected figure. He was regarded as a 'professional's professional' before that term was ever used.
"But not only was he a great footballer, he was also a lovely bloke. I've never met anyone who met Brian who didn't like him. "He still worked at the club as an ambassador on match days, showing guests around the stadium. He loved to do that because it meant he was still dealing with Evertonians. "He was passionate about the football club and a great Merseysider". Sky Sports News
Labone played in the really great Everton team of the late 60s early 70s. Their midfield was Colin Harvey, Howard Kendall and Alan Ball - arguably the best midfield on the planet at that time. A gifted player and very very good defender.
Labone, who earned 26 caps for England, made 535 appearances for Everton scoring two goals for the Merseysiders between 1957 and 1971. "Everyone at the club is devastated," said Everton spokesman Ian Ross. "In the pantheon of Everton greats, Brian Labone is right up there with the very best. "He was one of the club's favourite sons and a hugely respected figure. He was regarded as a 'professional's professional' before that term was ever used.
"But not only was he a great footballer, he was also a lovely bloke. I've never met anyone who met Brian who didn't like him. "He still worked at the club as an ambassador on match days, showing guests around the stadium. He loved to do that because it meant he was still dealing with Evertonians. "He was passionate about the football club and a great Merseysider". Sky Sports News
Labone played in the really great Everton team of the late 60s early 70s. Their midfield was Colin Harvey, Howard Kendall and Alan Ball - arguably the best midfield on the planet at that time. A gifted player and very very good defender.
