12 October 2023 , 18:17
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Everton have announced that their chairman Bill Kenwright is out of intensive care after suffering complications during surgery to remove a cancerous tumour.
Kenwright underwent surgery six weeks ago and, although the operation was a success, he spent time recovering in intensive care. The 78-year-old is now out of hospital and continuing his recovery at home.
In a statement, the club said: " Everton would like to provide a short update on the health of our Chairman, Bill Kenwright. Following a diagnosis at the beginning of August, Mr Kenwright underwent a major medical procedure six weeks ago to remove a cancerous tumour from his liver.
"The procedure was completely successful, but complications during surgery necessitated a prolonged period in an intensive care unit. Mr Kenwright is now out of intensive care and has left hospital.
"He has returned home to continue his recovery which is expected to be lengthy, but complete." The club added that Kenwright has been "working hard" to help facilitate the sale of the club to 777 Partners.
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"Right up until the day of the procedure the Chairman had continued to carry out all his club duties, working hard alongside Mr Moshiri to facilitate the proposed takeover by 777 Partners and supporting Kevin Thelwell with the Club's summer transfer activity," the statement continued.
"Mr Kenwright has always been fiercely protective of his private life and is grateful that his privacy has been respected during this difficult time. He hopes this will continue following this update."
Kenwright joined the board of directors at Everton in 1989 and then became deputy chairman in 1999 after buying a 68% majority stake in the club. He then replaced Sir Phillip Carter as chairman in 2004 and remains in the role to this day, despite only owning 1.3% of the club.
Farhad Moshiri's Blue Heaven Holdings own 94.1% and it was announced last month a deal to sell Everton to 777 Partners had been agreed. Moshiri is hopeful the deal will be concluded before the end of the year, with the Premier League investigating to see if the American investment firm has the necessary funds to complete the takeover.
"I believe they are the best partners to take our great Club forward, with all the benefits of their multi-club investment model," Moshiri said of 777. " Today is an important next step in the successful development of Everton and I look forward to closely following as our Club goes from strength to strength."