John Motson

John Motson

The legend that is John Motson finally hangs up his microphone at the end of this season after nearly 50 years commentating on top-class football. Motty was on BBC Match of the Day duty for the Blues’ away date at Bournemouth last month and the doyen of all sports broadcasters was happy, as always, to spend 10 minutes with Everton magazine…

You’ve always had an affection for Everton haven’t you, John?

Yes, I have. I did my very first commentary at Goodison Park in December 1969. It was Radio 2 at the time and was before I went to Match of the Day. Everton beat Derby County 1-0, Alan Ball scored the goal and I always remember that he was wearing a pair of white sponsored boots. This was before the 1970 World Cup when sponsorship was new. Bally became a friend and I met him at dinners and such like many times over the years. He was tragically taken from us far too soon.

During your many years in the game you must have crossed paths with Sam Allardyce on many occasions…

Oh yes, I have often spoken to him on the morning of a matchday and he’s always been very co-operative to me ever since he was in charge of Bolton Wanderers and, of course, I knew him as a player before that. His longevity in the game and his experience is a fantastic plus for any club. The only thing for Sam is that he’s never been in charge of a top-six club although hopefully that will change now at Everton.