Eduardo A. Encina, Times Staff Writer
Friday, April 8, 2011
TAMPA — FC Tampa Bay is in preliminary discussions to host English Premier club Everton for an international friendly match this summer.
Everton, a nine-time first-division champion, has had discussions with several American clubs to play here in July during the EPL's preseason training. The club is already slated to play MLS' D.C. United on July 23.
A possible game against FC Tampa Bay would likely be held in the second or third week of July at the team's current home, Al Lang Field, but Raymond James Stadium is also a possible site.
The Liverpool-based club has one of the strongest fan bases in the EPL and would be a significant draw in the United States. Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard is Team USA's starting keeper.
Everton is England's longest tenured first-division club, having played in the top tier for a record 108 seasons, including every year since 1954. Everton was also a founding member of the EPL in 1992.
Eduardo A. Encina, Times staff writer