Wayne Rooney, Liverpool FC and football world pay tribute to 'great man' Bill Kenwright

The world of football has paid tribute to Everton chairman Bill Kenwright after he passed away, aged 78.

Kenwright was the longest-serving Blues chairman for more than a century after he succeeded Sir Phillip Carter in 2004. A lifelong Evertonian, he joined as a board member in 1989 before his True Blue Holdings Consortium acquired the club 10 years later.

During his tenure at the Goodison Park hierarchy, Everton had 12 top-eight finishes, an FA Cup final in 2009, European qualification on six separate occasions as well as a top-four finish in 2005. Following the news, tributes from the football community and beyond flooded in for Kenwright.

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright dies aged 78

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Rivals Liverpool FC posted a tribute. They tweeted: "Rest in peace, Bill Kenwright. The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool FC are with Bill’s family, friends and everyone at @Everton."

England legend Wayne Rooney, who Kenwright reluctantly sold to Manchester United before bringing him back to Everton, said: "Devastated to hear the sad news about Bill Kenwright. Known Bill since I was young and he's had a huge impact on me as a person and my career. Great man and a big inspiration. Thoughts are with all Bill's family and friends."

Former Blues captain Phil Neville penned a tribute, he said: "R.I.P Mr Chairman and thank you for everything you did for @Everton football club."

Goodison Park hero Tim Cahill, who played alongside Neville, paid his own tribute. He said: "I'm devastated to hear about the passing of Mr Everton Bill Kenwright. I can't thank you enough Chairman for giving me the opportunity to play for our club and the support