Everton players were able to put a smile on the young faces

'Since I came and joined the club, I soon realised that Everton is more than a club, Everton is a family and today is a perfect example of that,' Silva said.

'It is important that we come and visit these children and their families at a special time of year and help to put smiles on their faces.'

To make sure as many of the young fans got their chance to see the team, the squad - wearing blue Santa hats - split up into groups to make their way around the hospital.


'The hospital is amazing and so are the kids themselves and their parents. They’re inspirational. I’ve got two young girls myself and any parent will tell you your kids are the most important thing in the world,' defender Seamus Coleman said.

'To see how tough the parents are, how strong they are and with smiles on their faces when maybe they’ve not slept properly for weeks or months because of the worry, they’re a credit to themselves and we wish them all the best.'