Lifelong Everton fan Andy BurnhamImago

Andy Burnham has Everton promise to keep if he becomes Prime Minister after Sir Keir Starmer resignation

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Published on:

22 Jun 2026, 1:40 pm

Lifelong Everton supporter Andy Burnham looks nailed on to become the next Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

Just two years on from winning a landslide majority at the 2024 general election, Labour PM Sir Keir Starmer announced his resignation on Monday.

Burnham won a by-election in Makerfield last week, and was expected to challenge for leadership of the party and, by extension, the role of Prime Minister.

Starmer has consequently asked a timeline to begin for nominations to replace him by 9 July.

Burnham is the overwhelming favourite to replace him, and there appears little chance of a legitimate challenger to stand against him.

And, if he does get new digs at 10 Downing Street, he will have a promise to keep to Evertonians.

Andy Burnham made season-ticket promise to Everton

Burnham has supported Everton since childhood, and still regularly attends matches.

In the past, Burnham has been a prominent voice in times of trouble with the Toffees, especially when the Blues were contesting PSR issues.

Burnham has, of course, attempted to become Labour leader in the past and been unsuccessful.

Speaking to FUBAR Radio in 2015, in quotes reported at the time by the Daily Mail, Burnham vowed he would never relinquish his season.

"I have a season ticket, it's my big thing," he said.

Asked if he would give up his seat if he became PM, he added: "No. Never. No, never. I will always go and watch Everton. Always. All my life, it will never change."

Andy Burnham in attendance, Everton fans let anger known - unseen moments vs Sunderland

What happens next for Andy Burnham?

It has been a whirldwind few days for Burnham, who earned a resounding victory in the Makerfield by-election.

For now, though, Starmer remains in charge of the country, with nominations open from 9 July and ending by close of summer recess on 16 July.

Starmer's timeline would see a new leader, and new Prime Minister, in place before parliament returns in September.

Burnham has already announced his intention to stand, and his chances were boosted after Wes Streeting - a once potential leadership rival - backing him.

It appears very likely that a Toffee is going to be running the United Kingdom before long.

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