Did you know that one of the most respected goalkeepers of all time is a Welshman? It was also his birthday recently. Aside from being a terrific goalkeeper, he’s an even better human being!
Who is Neville Southall?
Neville Southall (or Big Nev, as he is affectionately nicknamed), was born in Llandudno, Conwy, on 16 September 1958 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation and is, in my opinion, the greatest Welsh goalkeeper of all time.
Between 1982 and 1998, Nev won 92 caps for the Welsh national side. Though this was a time when Cymru failed to qualify for a major competition, it certainly was not the fault of the goalkeeper named as one of the top 100 players of the 20th century (ranked 95th), featuring among the likes of Pele, Maradona and Cruyff.
At club level, he is best remembered for his 17-year career at Everton, which saw him win:
The First Division: 1984–85, 1986–87
The FA Cup: 1983–84, 1994–95
The FA Charity Shield: 1984, 1985, 1995
The European Cup Winners’ Cup: 1984–85
He also won BBC Wales Sports Personality of the Year in 1995.
Aside from his distinguished footballing career, Big Nev is a trade unionist and political activist who has endorsed LGBTQ+ rights and Welsh independence. Since leaving football behind, he has moved into the education sector and works with SEN (special educational needs) children.
Penblwydd hapus, Big Nev!
More from Welsh Histories
Welsh Histories is a Welsh history celebrating platform which looks to promote all aspects of Welsh history. Though we focus predominantly on native Welsh history, we do also share the non-native aspects from time to time. You can follow us on Facebook; Instagram or Twitter for more. A reader? We also have our very own Welsh Histories Shop where we sell our Welsh Histories Magazine. Diolch yn fawr iawn and keep enjoying Welsh Histories.
DIGITAL Welsh Histories Magazine – September 2025
Niklas is the founder, owner, manager, editor, writer, video creator, voice over artist, and so forth, of Welsh Histories. He is passionate about the preservation of Welsh culture; the rejuvenation of the Welsh language and the promotion of Welsh history. Niklas currently resides in Pune, Maharashtra, with his beloved wife.