The Everton Former Players Foundation confirmed yesterday that former Wales, Everton and Tranmere goalkeeper Dai Davies has died aged 72.
Born in Welsh mining village Glanamman, Davies started his career with Swansea City before joining league champions Everton in 1970 for £20,000 after being scouted playing in the Third Division.
He stayed for seven seasons playing 82 matches as a Toffee before Joining Wrexham in 1977. He later returned to Swansea and spent a year as player-coach for Tranmere before retiring in 1987. He also won the third most caps for Wales for a goalkeeper at 52 in his career. He won two Welsh Cups and is the third oldest player to play for Wrexham.
Davies was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last year and was met with support across the footballing world. It was also announced that he had been receiving treatment at Wrexham’s Nightingale House Hospice.
Everton and Wales legend Neville Southall credited Davies with being an influence on his career. “Dai Davies had incredible mental strength and never let the odd mistake affect him. He just kept going. He won more than 50 caps and played loads of games at the top level and should be recognised as a top goalkeeper. His attitude was always spot on and he’s a great guy and a really funny person.”
Former Wrexham teammate Barry Horne also added “he was a lovely man and a great loss to Welsh football and Wales in general.”
Our thoughts and wishes go out to the Davies family at this time.
Dai Davies picture passed on through everton fan service
