Everton and Bolton Wanderers paid a heartfelt tribute to 15-year-old Noah Johnson, a lifelong Everton fan who died from a severe asthma attack on June 11. During a friendly match at the Toughsheet Community Stadium on July 25, players, staff and supporters honoured the teenager.
Tribute at the Stadium
Noah's parents Ryan and Chloe, his brother Evan and sister Evie were invited as special guests. Before kick-off, the family met Everton players including James Tarkowski, Beto, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Michael Keane. Manager David Moyes personally offered his condolences, and club ambassador Ian Snodin spent time with the family.
A photograph of Noah and his name were displayed on the stadium's big screen. Supporters from both clubs rose to applaud in the 15th minute. In the away end, Blues supporters unfurled a large banner bearing Noah's name.
After Noah's death, Everton captain James Tarkowski visited the family home to offer his condolences in person.
A Lifelong Blue with a Love for Football
Noah had eosinophilic brittle asthma, a rare and severe condition that caused persistent airway inflammation. He received specialist care at Royal Manchester Children's Hospital. Despite being unable to play sport for much of his childhood, he was determined to play football. He eventually earned a place in his school team and was later named captain.
His father Ryan said: "I never thought I'd see him kick a football, but he was a fighter and was determined that he was going to play football eventually. When his PE teacher picked him for the school football team, it was amazing. I never thought I'd see him run around kicking a football, never mind be picked for school, but to be picked as captain as well was something unbelievable."
During the pandemic, Noah received a surprise phone call from Jordan Pickford. He was later invited to Goodison Park as a mascot for Everton's Premier League match against Newcastle United, walking out alongside his idol James Tarkowski.
Dad's Gratitude
Ryan thanked both clubs for what he called an unforgettable gesture. He said: "I can't thank Everton and Bolton enough for what they have done for my family. Saturday was the first time I've actually watched football since Noah died, as football was the thing that we did together. Seeing his name on the big screen before the game, then everyone clapping in his honour and the Everton fans lifting up that banner was just something I can't describe, but it was lovely."
Reflecting on the day, he added: "The club couldn't have done any more. Meeting all the players, and Snods, was amazing and they all genuinely wanted to come and speak to us. David Moyes had some kind words and he knew all about Noah and his love for Everton and football. I'll never forget Noah walking out with Tarky. He was wholehearted and loved watching Tarky because he's somebody who puts his body on the line. Noah sort of became that kind of player. He was a titan on the pitch and my best mate off it."
