June

After 40 years, Colin Harvey, the Under-19 coach and Assistant Academy Director, is about to call an end to his career with Everton.

With a testimonial match planned as the curtain raiser for the new campaign, he says:

"It's as nice a time to go as any. I've been lucky to be involved in so many roles with the club, but it's my time as a player that I'll treasure more than anything else. To be an Everton supporter and go on to play almost 400 games for the first team means more to me than anything and that's what's given me the biggest satisfaction."

Meanwhile, Rooney features for England once again in a friendly against Serbia and Montenegro at the Walkers Stadium, playing 45 minutes in the 2-1 win.

Everton call time on their association with the Halton Stadium after concerns were raised about the state of the playing surface. Southport FC's Haig Avenue stadium is chosen as the new venue for Everton's reserve matches.

Everton's proposal to include more flexibility in the payment of transfer fees between Premiership clubs is accepted by the Chairmen of the other 19 teams.

Clubs now have the option of agreeing deals that include payment plans extending over the life of the player's contract, bringing the Premiership into line with the continent.