Everton announced today that the club will be embarking on a preseason tour to Australia this summer in what will be their first visit since 1987.
The Toffees will play three games down under against A-League sides. Obviously, the tour will be extremely popular for Everton because of the popularity of Aussie and Everton hero Tim Cahill.
Cahill may still be involved in the World Cup when Everton plays its first game down under. Or, if Australia exits the tournament early, Cahill may be ready to play for the Blues.
- Brisbane Roar v Everton, Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane; Saturday, July 10
- Melbourne Heart v Everton, Etihad Stadium, Melbourne; Wednesday, July 14
- Sydney FC v Everton, ANZ Stadium, Sydney; Saturday, July 17
For the updated list of Premier League teams on preseason tours this summer, visit EPL Talk’s Preseason Friendlies page which will be updated all summer long courtesy of EPL Talk blogger John Boschini.
Sounds cool. Soccer is shooting up the ranks in popularity over there and I’d say an Everton tour with one of their best players is a good enhancement.
O/T but the UEFA Champions League Final crew is Curt Menefee (really), Eric Wynalda, and Bruce Arena. It was reported by the AP yesterday but I never saw it posted here.
Oh…God…yes! Cannot wait to see the game in Sydney. Just the sheer thought that I will gaze upon an EPL side in real life for the first time excites me. Hell, it could have been Wolves and I would still be excited.
It almost beats hacking at Dwight Yorke’s ankles at a Soccer Expo in 2002 as a 14-year-old in a ‘friendly’ kick about.
Good news for Australians, Cahill is a big player for their national team and it will be good for them to see him play in an EPL side.
I have a few mates over in Sydney who are Everton fans and im sure they will buzzing over the tour. They’ll be a great crowd and a smart move by Everton to tap into the Aussie market and please the Ex-pats. COYB’s!!!
Cant wait to see them play….looking forward too seeing an EPL side…my side. Will go watch all 3 games..wish they had played the Mariners as well.
ON the preseason Friendlies Manchester United & Celtic are playing twice in Toronto?? July 16 or 17th and July 30?
EPL, just once between Man United and Celtic. It’ll be on July 16 or 17. More details are at http://www.epltalk.com/european-soccer-clubs-plan-summer-invasion-of-north-america/18536
Cheers,
The Gaffer
Can’t wait!!! Been a toffee since I was a small boy and I’m also a foundation member of Sydney FC. It’s going to be great night and fantastic for the local game.