Everton supporters ‘to be unhappy as TFG strike unusual multi-million agreement’
The Friedkin Group appear to have already made their first unpopular decision as Everton owners.
Everton are set to embark on a brand-new era, with The Friedkin Group preparing for their first summer in charge of the Toffees.
It was an emotional day on Sunday (18 May) as Everton played their final men’s match at Goodison Park, beating Southampton 2-0 in the Premier League.
However, supporters will now be keen to wipe their tears and look ahead to the future, although a recent announcement has somewhat tainted the vision of what is to come.
Everton’s new home to be called Hill Dickinson Stadium
Everton recently announced that their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock would be called the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The sponsorship deal with the international law firm is understood to be worth £10-million-a-year, and thought to be one of the largest stadium naming rights deals in Europe [The Telegraph].
| Stats | Goodison Park | Hill Dickinson Stadium |
| Capacity | 39,414 | 52,888 |
| Years open | 132 | <1 |
| Construction cost | £3,000 | £750million |
However, despite the financial benefits, ex-Goodison scout Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Goodison News – isn’t in agreement with the name of the new stadium.
“I don’t think supporters will be very happy with this name,” King said.
“What Everton should have done is named the stadium after a former player or manager. I’ve never actually heard of this company before.
“It is one thing to sponsor the stadium. However, to name the stadium after this law firm seems a bit unusual to me. I think that is what is angering the supporters. Why not name the stadium after a player?
“Give the stadium a name which is iconic to Everton supporters. Their company could have been advertised in the stadium. However, I don’t know about naming the stadium after this law firm.”
Everton fans will demand success at the Hill Dickinson Stadium
Any reservations Everton supporters have about the name of their new stadium will be quickly put to bed if the Toffees are successful in the new ground.
Therefore, the money from this naming rights deal must be reinvested into the squad. That might be the only way to get fans on board.