Everton supporter Dennis Marsh, who travels 2,000 miles from his home in Switzerland to attend matches, believes the club is an attractive investment opportunity as The Friedkin Group look to sell up. The Houston-based owners announced on October 9 that the club was up for sale, less than 22 months after completing their takeover of Farhad Moshiri's 99.5% controlling stake.
Financial expertise and stadium appeal
Marsh, a chartered accountant who has worked with the European Central Bank, the Bank of England, the Federal Reserve, Bank of Switzerland and Bank of China, told the ECHO: "Definitely. First of all, they've got a brand-new stadium and if they get their act together off the pitch in terms of concerts and other non-football events."
He added: "They've acquired an £800million stadium at less than cost price and professionalised the financial state of the club to make it doable for new buyers. I believe their intention was always to flip Everton and make a profit."
Long-distance support and family ties
Marsh, 65, who has just retired, lives close to Zurich Airport and takes advantage of typically 10 flights a day to the UK. He said: "I get to virtually every home game and many of the aways, especially the London ones when I can stay with my daughter."
Family is central to his support, with six generations of Blues supporters, starting with his great-grandfather born in 1878. His father lived at 37 Goodison Road, where players and managers have signed the wall in the hallway.
Health battle and player support
After being diagnosed with a rare cancer called POEMS syndrome, Marsh underwent a stem cell transplant. He said: "My son Nick contacted Everton, and I got a phone call out of the blue from Michael Keane."
He added: "We chatted for half an hour and I have to say what an absolute gentleman he is, he is a credit to his family."
