Neville Southall reassures fans he is not seriously ill after health scare

Neville Southall has moved to calm the fears of supporters after a brief, worrying absence from social media, confirming he is not seriously ill but is experiencing a painful catheter issue that will require surgery.

The Everton and Wales goalkeeping legend, 67, had posted on X on Sunday that he would be stepping away from the platform because he was unwell, prompting an outpouring of concern from fans. He followed up with a fuller explanation shortly afterwards.

“Good morning everyone,” Southall wrote. “I am not dying or serious ill I have a problem with a catheter that keeps blocking which is painful. Waiting for an operation in future. Just needed some space.”

The update drew an immediate wave of relief from supporters. “So glad you’re not seriously ill Nev, been thinking about you over the past few days,” one fan replied. Another wrote: “The best goalkeeper I ever saw play who didn’t play for my team — and constantly proving the best human being on Twitter. Get well soon Neville.”

Others offered empathy drawn from personal experience. “Yep take care, I know what it’s like — had one for a year and kept blocking up every week or so,” one supporter said. “Had the op now, no longer a problem. Hope the op is soon.”

Southall, an MBE holder, is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in British football history. He made 578 appearances for Everton between 1981 and 1998, winning two First Division titles and an FA Cup, and earned 92 caps for Wales. Since retiring, he has remained a prominent and outspoken voice on social media, regularly engaging with fans on issues both inside and outside football.

No date has been given for the planned operation.