1981 - 2002
For the long-suffering Evertonians, this was one brush with relegation too far. Peter Johnson had taken over the club in 1994, but the promised progress just never happened and the success the fans longed for seemed a long way off.
In November 1998, the Chairman sanctioned the sale of terrace idol, Duncan Ferguson, to Newcastle and the outcry that ensued eventually forced changes at the very highest level.
There was no way back for Mr Johnson, but it was Christmas 1999 before the power struggle ended with lifelong Evertonian, Bill Kenwright, leading a consortium that was given the go-ahead to assume control of the football club.
On the pitch meanwhile, Kendall's one season return ended and Walter Smith was lured South of the Border after a glorious, trophy-laden career with Glasgow Rangers.
Smith bought Archie Knox with him but despite attracting a number of quality players to Goodison including Paul Gascoigne, David Ginola and Kevin Campbell success eluded the pair and in March 2002 the Board of Directors felt that progress was not being made and decided a change of manager was called for.
Email
