ELLESMERE Port footballing legend Dave Hickson received a standing ovation from Everton fans on his return to Goodison Park on Boxing Day.
The 78-year-old former Toffees star, who lives with his wife Pat in Great Sutton, walked out on to the pitch at half-time in the Blues’ match against Bolton to thank supporters for their good wishes following his recent heart attack.
Hickson, who works as a Goodison tour guide and a matchday host in the executive lounges, collapsed at the ground prior to the game against Sunderland in November.
He said: “I just wanted to come out here and say thank you to all of you who have sent me get well cards and good wishes.
“It would be impossible for me to thank everyone personally, but it means ever so much to me. Thank you.”
Hickson was born in Salford but moved to Ellesmere Port when he was 12 months old.
Nicknamed The Cannonball Kid because of his performances as a player for Everton in the 1950s, he also had spells with Liverpool, Tranmere, Aston Villa and Huddersfield Town during an illustrious career.
But it was with the Toffees that he made his name and is considered by supporters, including club chairman Bill Kenwright, as one of the club’s greatest ever players.
He had a long association with the old Port football team, making his debut for Town FC at the age of 16, and after a spell as player-manager in the mid-60s became boss again in 1976.
