Sylvain Distin sends emotional Everton message and reveals what he 'loved' about Goodison Park

Sylvain Distin has delivered an emotional message to Everton supporters after returning to Goodison Park for the ground's final Premier League fixture

Former Everton player Sylvain Distin has sent an emotional message to Blues supporters and proclaimed that Goodison Park ‘isn’t just a stadium, it’s a soul.” The Frenchman, signed by David Moyes for £5million from Portsmouth in 2009 as a replacement for Manchester City-bound Joleon Lescott – who also received a warm reception from the home crowd when announced in a parade of over 70 former players following Everton’s 2-0 win over Southampton in Goodison Park’s final Premier League fixture on Sunday – made 210 appearances for the Blues and scored five goals across a six-year spell at the club.

Now 47, Distin took to Instagram to deliver the following message: “I walked out at Goodison Park one last time. Not as a player, but as a blue forever… “When I arrived in 2009, I came to do a job. I left with something far greater. Love, memories and a second home. Goodison gave me more than just football.

“The Gwladys Street, the Park End, the chants, the passion. You carried us when our legs were heavy.

“You demanded more, because you knew we had more. And I loved that, I needed that. “This place isn’t just a stadium, it’s a soul. For six unforgettable years, I gave everything in the royal blue, felt every tackle, lived every victory and carried every defeat.

“Now, as the time comes to say goodbye to this sacred ground, my heart is full. Sad, yes, but also proud.

“Proud to have been part of Goodison’s story. Proud to have shared that pitch with warriors. Proud to have heard my name from these stands.

“Goodison may fall silent but its spirit will echo through everyone that walked through those turnstiles. It’s not just the end of a chapter, it’s the celebration of a legacy.

“Forever grateful. Forever Everton. Merci.

“Once a Blue, Always a Blue.”

Meanwhile, Asmir Begovic, who Everton confirmed on Saturday will be leaving the club when his contract expires this summer, also delivered an Instagram message. The Bosnia and Herzegovina international goalkeeper made 10 appearances for the Blues in his first spell between 2021-23 and after a season with Queens Park Rangers in 2023/24, returned this term but did not play.

The 37-year-old said: “A beautiful farewell to Goodison Park. An incredible occasion for all Evertonians and very blessed to have been part of it all.

“It’s been an absolute honour to be part of Everton over my two spells. A huge thank you to all my team-mates, staff, and all the fans for making me feel welcome at this special club.

“I wish you all nothing but the very best. Ready for the last few days of the season and next challenge ahead.”