Mark Schwarzer

Now working in the media, Mark Schwarzer has fond memories of playing at Goodison Park for a number of English clubs. Although, as he reveals, he could have made many more appearances at the Grand Old Lady had events transpired differently.

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There is a little regret about not going to Everton. It would have been an experience that I would never have forgotten.” Having starred for Bradford City in an FA Cup tie at Goodison Park in January 1997, then 24-year-old Mark Schwarzer found himself a man in demand.

A number of top clubs, including the Toffees, registered an interest in the young Australian and suddenly he had a decision to make.

“I remember that game,” recalls Schwarzer, of the Bantams’ 3-2 fourth-round win at Everton. “It was a massive moment in my career. I had been in Germany for a couple of years but things weren’t going to plan. But I moved to Bradford City and as soon as I arrived there my whole footballing life and luck began to change. That game against Everton at Goodison in the FA Cup was a pivotal moment. It was a great day in Bradford’s history and for myself as well.

“There was, after the match, the possibility of me joining Everton. I came and met the Chairman at the time but for certain reasons it just didn’t eventuate. I ended up choosing Middlesbrough instead.

“Anything could have happened, you just never know, but what I do know is that Everton is a wonderful club, and for me, either decision would have been a fantastic one.”

Schwarzer, of course, has returned to Goodison on a number of occasions with Boro, Fulham, Chelsea and Leicester City. And now, having retired following his short stint with the Foxes, he is back watching games as part of the media.