Everton legend Neville Southall flooded with support after sharing health update

Neville Southall has been met with an outpouring of support after posting a brief health update on X on Sunday morning, telling followers he would be taking a leave of absence from the platform. The 67-year-old Wales and Everton legend offered no further details, writing simply: “Won’t be on here for a bit not well.”

The message drew an immediate wave of concern and warm wishes from across the footballing community. Former Wales teammate Iwan Roberts responded: “Bless you Nev get better soon big man.” Welsh fan group The Barry Horns posted: “We love you Nev,” while journalist Daniel Storey wrote: “Keep well Nev, look after yourself.”

Everton supporters were among those quickest to rally. Anthony Robbins wrote: “Best of luck big man, we are all with you, we are one, we are Everton,” while another fan added: “Best wishes, Neville. A hero to many Evertonians. The best to ever do it. Look after yourself big man.”

Southall’s health has been a concern before. Last summer he was hospitalised after contracting a serious infection that required intravenous treatment, posting at the time: “Not talking a break from here in hospital with a couple of drips due to bad infection.”

The Llandudno-born goalkeeper spent the core of his career at Goodison Park from 1981 to 1998, making well over 500 league appearances for Everton. During that spell he won two First Division titles, two FA Cups, and the European Cup Winners’ Cup, and was named FWA Footballer of the Year in 1985. He earned 92 caps for Wales, cementing his status as one of the finest goalkeepers of his generation.

Since retiring, Southall — an MBE holder — has become as well known for his advocacy work as for his playing career, championing mental health awareness and LGBT rights with consistent and vocal commitment. That broader legacy has deepened the affection supporters and peers hold for him, as Sunday’s response made plain.