Everton have welcomed fans to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock as they prepare to move in ahead of next season.
A test event last month saw 10,000 supporters fill the stadium’s South Stand for an Everton Under-18s match, followed by 25,000 attending an Under-21s fixture on 23 March. As part of the event, the match was halted at the 65-minute mark to assess evacuation procedures for the 52,888-capacity venue.
However, following the event, the BBC reported on 24 March that concerns have arisen regarding the strain on public transport. Fans criticized Merseyrail services to Sandhills and Moorfields stations, describing them as “awful,” with reports of staff instructing passengers to disembark before trains could depart. Additionally, overcrowding on Sandhills station’s small platform created a potentially hazardous situation for Everton supporters.
Finance expert Stefan Borson told Football Insider that it is up to Liverpool politicians to push for government funding to enhance transport links around the stadium. He pointed out that Manchester United is set to receive government support for infrastructure improvements as part of the Old Trafford regeneration project, with Manchester mayor and Everton fan Andy Burnham playing a key role in securing funding.
Borson criticized Liverpool politicians for their reluctance to lobby the government for assistance, calling it a “ridiculous” stance. Speaking to Football Insider, he noted that while some government funding has already been allocated to the area, local politicians must advocate for more. He referenced a discussion on Radio 4’s Today Programme, which suggested that Liverpool councillors generally avoid seeking government support, a stance Borson argued was misguided.
“If Liverpool fails to secure the funding needed for regeneration around the docks and the new stadium, that’s their issue,” he said. “It’s not about subsidizing a football club, but rather accessing available regeneration funds. Other cities are lobbying hard for their share, and Liverpool should do the same.”
Ironically, he added, Andy Burnham—an Everton fan—is actively supporting Manchester United’s redevelopment, which he sees as a missed opportunity for Liverpool.
England’s Biggest Club Stadiums (Ranked by Capacity)
1. Old Trafford (Man United) – 74,197
2. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (Tottenham) – 62,850
3. London Stadium (West Ham) – 62,500
4. Anfield (Liverpool) – 61,276
5. Emirates Stadium (Arsenal) – 60,704
6. Etihad Stadium (Man City) – 52,900
7. Everton Stadium (Everton) – 52,888 (when open)
Everton Set for £10m Windfall from US Pre-Season Tour
On 20 March, Football Insider reported that Everton could earn up to £10 million from their participation in this summer’s Premier League Summer Series in the US. The event will feature Man United, West Ham, and Bournemouth, providing Everton with a financial boost ahead of their move to the new stadium.
The club’s owners aim to adopt an American-style matchday experience at the new venue to maximize revenue. However, before the stadium officially opens for the 2025-26 season, David Moyes’s side will travel to the US for their pre-season preparations.
‘I Heard…’ – Stefan Borson blasts Liverpool politicians amid Everton stadium controversy
