"More Strength And Courage Than Most"

Ray Hall recalls the impact and quality of Gary Ablett.

Everton's former academy manager Ray Hall has added his tribute to the late Gary Ablett.

Hall was the man who gave Ablett his first shot at coaching, initially on a part time basis with Blues youngsters.

And Hall, now Everton's international academy ambassador, explained that the former defender, who died this week following a battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, had an immediate impact.

"Gary first got involved at the Academy on a part-time basis," recalled Hall.

"He remained in close contact with us and because of the type of man he was, he went on to make himself indispensable.

"He joined us full time following his retirement as a player and with his experience and knowledge he made an immediate and huge impact. Everyone thought the world of him and he got the very best out of young people and they respected him for who he was."

Even through his illness Ablett remained close to Everton and Hall revealed he was keen to help the Blues' young players learn from his tragic experiences.

"He was so strong even towards the end," he continued.

"Only recently he wanted to come in and give a presentation to our young players about strength and mental courage. He had more than most when all things considered.

"Everyone at the Club is devastated by the news and my own thoughts are with his wife Jackie and his three children at what is an extremely difficult time.

"He will be sadly missed."