Today, we will remember and celebrate the life of Michael Jones.  

Like everyone, it was with the utmost shock and sadness that I learned of Michael’s tragic passing on the Monday after our opening game of the season.  

On behalf of the Club, I would like to reiterate our sincerest condolences to Michael’s family, many friends, and colleagues, and remind them that he and they remain very much in our thoughts.  

The tributes that have been paid to Michael are testament to the person he was - and the Evertonian he was. He was someone who was loyal and generous towards those he loved, and a Blue who followed his team unwaveringly home and away. He was rightly proud, too, to be playing his part in, and lending his talents to, the creation of our future home.  

I have spoken personally with Michael’s parents, Elaine and Mick, to offer my deepest sympathies and extend on behalf of everyone at the Club our full support. I have heard many of Michael’s friends share their memories and was privileged to be given a real insight into the character Michael was. 

I am honoured that Michael's immediate family have accepted our invitation to be here this afternoon and will join us as we all pay our respects to someone who truly loved his football club.  

They are exceptional, loving people, and I can only commend the strength and bravery they have shown. As a father myself, I cannot begin to comprehend their loss. I hope, however, they gain some solace from joining us in remembering Michael this afternoon, at a place that was clearly so special to him.   

Michael’s girlfriend, Hannah, and her father, Rob, are both matchday employees here at Goodison and our thoughts and support, of course, extends to them. 

It has been evident in the past 12 days that Michael’s passing has been felt by our entire fanbase, and beyond. That was clear from the scenes last Sunday at Villa Park and 24 hours earlier at Anfield. I would like to thank the management, players, staff and supporters of Liverpool Football Club for the thoughtful and touching way in which they paid their respects to Michael, proving as always that this city’s football family is one that unites in the toughest of times.  

Such was Michael’s love of Everton, he made connections across the fanbase - be it from travelling the length and breadth of the country to follow the team, or flying as far as Australia as he did just last November. Many fans in attendance today will have met Michael. Many of you will not have known him personally but will have shared away ends or celebrated goals and victories here at Goodison alongside him.  

Michael’s passing has impacted us all. And that is why I ask you to join us in applauding his life today, before kick-off and again when the clock reaches 26 minutes.  

Beyond this afternoon, we will continue to work with Laing O’Rourke to create an appropriate and lasting memorial for Michael at our new stadium, the details of which will be agreed with his family and communicated publicly when the time is right. He will never be forgotten.  

Indeed, as the banner fans held aloft at Villa Park last Sunday rightly stated, Michael Jones will be forever in our hearts.   

May he rest in peace.