Everton’s win over Sheffield United was a routine one, and it kind of felt like the precursor to the more important lap of honour that came after.
This was especially prevalent given the unpredictable nature of the coming summer, where seemingly anyone and everyone has a price tag.
The Toffees’ continued efforts to balance the books and avoid further PSR ramifications are expected to provoke some key sales in the coming months, and thus for many yesterday was a farewell to Goodison Park as they took one last lap of the pitch.
Andre Gomes, whose contract is due to expire at the end of next month, is one such name who seemed to be saying goodbye to the home crowd.
Andre Gomes sends heartfelt message to Evertonians
This notion has only been reinforced in the day following the match, as he posted on X earlier today another message to Evertonians.
The 30-year-old joined the club way back in 2018, making his loan move a permanent one just a year later.
However, he never really recaptured the form found in that debut campaign, where he dazzled with his silky feet and eye for a pass.
He was a fan favourite, and remains well-liked amongst Evertonians despite his struggles in recent years.
And he wanted to thank them in turn, writing: ‘Another win on our last home game of the season. Toffees, thank you for your unconditional support. I’m glad I could see and feel it once again Even with a black eye’.
Andre Gomes may have played his last Goodison Park game
Gomes is one of many Everton players who may well have played their last game at Goodison Park yesterday, given the amount of contracts expiring.
However, as one of the longest-serving players actually still within the squad, it is interesting to see the lack of fanfare there was surrounding what seemed like goodbye.
He took specific time out from the rest of the group to soak up the Goodison Park atmosphere, and walked towards the Gwladys Street end to applaud them for their undying support.
The Portuguese maestro threatened to be a truly great player for the Toffees when he first burst onto the scene, but a lack of consistency combined with a devastating injury curtailed his chances of realising that potential.
Hopefully, he can go elsewhere and succeed, with the absence of his wages within Everton’s wage bill sure to be a welcome sight for Kevin Thelwell.