The dates behind the drama of Everton’s plans

2004

July: First linked to CEO job after Trevor Birch’s resignation just six weeks into the job, when he was still £100,000-a-year chief executive at Aberdeen.

Unveiled as new CEO in September.

2005

November: Everton’s stadium plans are like “three-dimensional chess,” Wyness says, because of the wait to see what Liverpool FC’s move would be.

December: Wyness confirms talks have been held with financiers over bankrolling a new 50,000-seat £125m stadium.

2006

News breaks that Wyness is in talks with Peel Holdings over building a new stadium at Switch Island.

May: Council leader Warren Bradley vows to “fight tooth and nail” to stop Everton FC leaving Liverpool, after it emerges Knowsley was offering the club three possible plots including land next to Kirkby sports centre in Valley Road.

June: Wyness claims that his club could have a new stadium before Liverpool, despite Everton having yet to decide on a site for any new ground.

2007

March: Mr Wyness tells a House of Commons seminar that Everton would be interested in the possible return of a limited standing area if they proceed with a proposed move to a new stadium.

2008

April: Wyness concerned about the long-term ramifications of the club’s proposed move to Kirkby if the Government launched an inquiry.

July: Wyness quits as CEO and director of the club.

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