Everton fans pay tribute to legendary manager Howard Kendall prior to home game with Manchester United 

Around 15 minutes before kick-off the Z Cars theme could be heard around Goodison Park.

This time, however, it was different.

As a violin sombrely performed the famous Everton anthem all eyes were on the big screen at the Park End instead of the tunnel.

Everton and Manchester United players carry out a minute's applause for Howard Kendall who died aged 69

The flag above Goodison Park was flown at half mast ahead of Everton's match with Manchester United

Everton fans pay their respects to Kendall with flowers placed by the Dixie Dean statue to commemorate him

Howard Kendall’s greatest moments appeared: the 1984 FA Cup final when his side showed Elton John’s Watford why they were called the Blues, the two league titles, and that magical Rotterdam night in 1985 when they lifted the Cup Winners Cup.

The 69-year-old who passed away yesterday morning surrounded by loved ones, appeared in each clip as he will always be remembered: in a blue suit and tie, hair side-parted and with a big smile.

When players from both sides lined the centre circle, the stadium announcer asked those present to stand and observe a minute’s applause. But before he had finished speaking Goodison was on its feet.

Images of Kendall's time in charge at Everton were displayed on the giant screens prior to kick-off

Everton supporters were quick to write kind messages of thanks and support to Kendall and his family

A fan touches a plaque in honour of the former Everton manager is displayed outside of Goodison Park

Even on a deeply sad day, some Everton fans celebrated their love for Kendall in typically jocular fashion

A chorus of ‘There’s only one Howard Kendall,’ started in the Gwladys Street end and quickly spread to all parts.

When Terry Venables considered leaving the Nou Camp Kendall came close to replacing him. Sadly, Everton could not play like Barcelona here.

Manchester United strolled to victory in a lop-sided encounter a million miles from what they witnessed here 30 years ago.

Kendall celebrates with the FA Cup in 1984 and with the League Championship trophy the following year (right)

Kendall congratulates Paul Bracewell after the win over QPR that sealed the First Division League title in 1985

Kendall made 270 appearances for the Blues between 1966 and 1974 winning the Old First Division in 1970

Supporters gather in the The Everton Fan Zone before kick-off against United to pay tribute to Kendall

The Everton starting XI applaud the life of Kendall prior to kick-off on an emotional day on Merseyside

Goodison will probably never see the likes of the golden era Kendall gave them.

The fans know that and, on an emotional afternoon, gave their former player and manager the send-off he deserved.

It was a shame the players could not follow their lead.

Ross Barkley looks to get to grips with Bastian Schweinsteiger during the first-half at Goodison Park

Steven Naismith looks to shake off the challenge of Phil Jones as Everton struggled in the opening 45 minutes