An exclusive interview with Alex Iwobi headlines another packed edition of Everton’s matchday programme for Saturday’s clash with Arsenal at Goodison Park (12.30pm).
Iwobi's wide-ranging interview encompasses his east London childhood, the resilience he displayed to succeed at the top level after almost being released by Arsenal at 14 and his reasons for choosing a “fresh start” at Everton.
“I could move away and become a man,” Iwobi says. “It is the start of something new. The ambitions here excited me.
“I was on the bench for my first game at Goodison, against Watford [in August], and felt, ‘Wow, the fans are like the 12th man’.
“When the Evertonians are behind us and we’re doing well, we feel unstoppable."
Duncan Ferguson’s programme notes are emotive and inspiring, as he salutes the collective effort of Everton's supporters and players since he took charge.
“I’ve never disguised my feelings about Evertonians, I think you’re a magical set of fans,” he writes.
“But feeling that depth of support as the man on the touchline has opened my eyes even further to the impact you have on this team.
“And the attitude of those players is the other factor which has contributed to this being one of the best periods of my life.
“I’ve demanded an awful lot from them – and it’ll be no different today – and the way they’ve responded has made me incredibly proud.”
A fascinating in-depth interview with Sylvain Distin features as our former player article.
The former Toffees centre-back reveals for the first time why he chose Everton over Liverpool, admits he was far from the model scholar in Paris Saint-Germain’s academy and explains how he discovered the gym was for more than developing a beach body.
Jordan Pickford, meanwhile, discusses how he spends Christmas Day, revisits his favourite festive memories and reveals what’s on his wishlist this year.
Mason Holgate answers a mixed bag of Evertonians’ questions, and we also have updates from the Everton Women, Under-23 and Under-18 teams.
The Everton matchday programme is priced at £3.50 can be purchased outside Goodison ahead of the game or at Everton One and Everton Two stores NOW.
Click here to purchase a copy and subscribe for the 2019/20 season.
