PLAYING for Everton FC is more than just a career for Tony Hibbert – it is a way of life.
The 31-year-old full-back from Huyton grew up from a boy to a man with the Blues, progressing through the youth set-up to become a first team player with more than 300 games under his belt.
Tomorrow, Hibbert’s loyalty – perhaps devotion would be a better word in this case – is rewarded with a testimonial game, in the form of Everton’s pre-season friendly against AEK Athens at Goodison. He is sharing the proceeds with local charities.
Looking back on a working life focused towards one aim, Hibbert said: “I have always thought about getting into the first team and playing as many games as I could. It is frightening when you look back, the time has flown by.”
Hibbert was aged 10 when he made the progression from being an Everton fan in a family of Evertonians to pulling on a club shirt.
“I have grown up at Everton,” Hibbert said. “I guess I have stayed here so long because of the club being what it is.
“My family had a big say in it. It’s just a family-based club. I wouldn’t say there was an individual person, it’s the whole club.”
Hibbert made his debut against West Ham in 2001 and spent most of his time as a professional working under manager David Moyes, averaging around 30 games a season over the period.
“The manager has stuck by me for the 10 years that he has been here,” Hibbert said. “You see a lot of people come and go.
“Also the fans have been absolutely brilliant. I think over the years, the support they have given us and me as a person, I couldn’t ask for more.
“I think with Everton, the supporters are up there with the best of teams by far, home and away. They are different class.”
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