Legends

There have been many legends at Everton football club.

From Howard Kendall and Neville Southall to Dixie Dean and Duncan Ferguson – here is our list of the top ten Everton legends of all time.

Howard Kendall

Howard Kendall had a highly successful and influential career at Everton. He initially joined the club as a player in 1967 and played a crucial role in their midfield. After retiring as a player, Kendall returned to Everton as a manager in 1981. Under his leadership, the team experienced a golden era.

Kendall led Everton to win two English First Division titles in 1985 and 1987, along with an FA Cup victory in 1984. His managerial style emphasized attractive and attacking football, and he built a formidable team that included players like Neville Southall, Kevin Ratcliffe, and Gary Lineker.

Kendall’s Everton side became known for their success in European competitions as well. They won the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup in 1985, defeating Rapid Vienna in the final.

However, despite their achievements, Kendall left Everton in 1987 to manage other clubs, including Athletic Bilbao and Manchester City. He returned to Everton for a short stint in 1997-1998 but couldn’t replicate his earlier success.

Overall, Kendall’s time at Everton is remembered as a period of glory and transformation for the club, establishing a legacy that remains influential to this day.

Neville Southall

Neville Southall is considered one of the greatest goalkeepers in Everton’s history. He joined Everton in 1981 and remained at the club for 17 years, becoming an iconic figure between the posts. Southall’s agility, shot-stopping ability, and commanding presence made him a formidable presence in goal.

During his time at Everton, Southall enjoyed tremendous success. He played a pivotal role in the club’s triumphs, including two English league titles (1984-85, 1986-87), an FA Cup (1983-84), and the European Cup Winners’ Cup (1984-85). Southall’s performances earned him numerous individual accolades, including being named the FWA Footballer of the Year in 1985.

Southall’s career at Everton was characterized by consistency and longevity. He made over 750 appearances for the club, setting a club record, and his remarkable reflexes and bravery earned him the admiration of fans and respect from opponents. Southall’s dedication and loyalty to Everton made him a beloved figure among the supporters.

After leaving Everton in 1998, Southall had brief spells at various clubs before retiring from professional football. His contributions to Everton and his remarkable goalkeeping abilities have cemented his legacy as an Everton legend.

Dixie Dean

Dixie Dean is a legendary figure in the history of Everton Football Club. He joined Everton in 1925 and became one of the most prolific goal-scorers of his time. Known for his physical strength and exceptional heading ability, Dean had a remarkable career at Everton.

During his time at the club, Dean achieved incredible feats. In the 1927-1928 season, he scored a record-breaking 60 league goals, a record that still stands today. He helped Everton win the First Division title in 1928 and 1932, and the FA Cup in 1933. Dean’s scoring prowess and consistent performances made him a beloved figure among the Everton faithful.

Unfortunately, Dean’s career was hampered by injuries, and he eventually left Everton in 1937. He had a brief stint with other clubs before retiring from professional football in 1940. Despite his relatively short time at Everton, Dixie Dean left an indelible mark on the club’s history. His goal-scoring records and legendary status as one of the greatest players in Everton’s history continue to be celebrated to this day.

Joe Royle

Joe Royle had a notable career at Everton Football Club as both a player and a manager. Royle joined Everton as a forward in 1966 and became an influential figure for the club during his playing days. He played a key role in Everton’s successful period in the late 1960s and early 1970s, winning the First Division title in 1970.

After retiring as a player, Royle returned to Everton as a manager in 1994. He faced the challenging task of rejuvenating the team, and he did so brilliantly. In his first season, Royle led Everton to a memorable FA Cup triumph in 1995, beating Manchester United in the final.

Royle’s managerial tenure at Everton also saw the club secure European qualification for the UEFA Cup. However, he left Everton in 1997 after the team’s league form declined in subsequent seasons.

Throughout his time at Everton, Joe Royle’s passion and commitment to the club were evident. He played a vital role in restoring success to the team and is remembered for his achievements, particularly the FA Cup victory in 1995. Royle’s contributions as both a player and a manager have left a lasting impact on Everton’s history.

Alan Ball

Alan Ball had a remarkable career at Everton Football Club. He joined the team in 1966 and quickly made his mark. Ball was an integral part of the Everton side that won the First Division title in the 1969-1970 season. He was known for his tireless work rate, exceptional ball control, and pinpoint passing ability.

Ball’s energy and determination endeared him to the Everton fans, and he became a beloved figure at the club. He played a pivotal role in the team’s success and was instrumental in their FA Cup triumph in 1966, the same year England won the World Cup, with Ball playing a key role for his national team.

During his time at Everton, Ball was known for his versatility, playing in various positions across midfield. He possessed great vision and creativity, often orchestrating Everton’s attacks and providing crucial assists.

Ball remained with Everton until 1971 when he transferred to Arsenal. However, his time at Everton left an indelible mark on the club and its supporters. He returned for a brief spell in 1976-1977, showcasing his enduring connection with the club.

Alan Ball’s contributions to Everton’s success, his passion, and his technical ability established him as a true legend of the club, forever remembered as an integral part of Everton’s history.

Colin Harvey

Colin Harvey had a significant career at Everton both as a player and a manager. Born in 1944, he joined Everton as a teenager in 1960 and quickly established himself as a talented midfielder. Harvey played an essential role in Everton’s success during the 1960s and 1970s, winning several trophies including the First Division title, FA Cup, and European Cup Winners’ Cup.

After retiring as a player, Harvey returned to Everton as a coach and eventually became the club’s manager in 1987. As a manager, he faced the challenging task of following in the footsteps of Howard Kendall, but he managed to guide the team to success. Under his leadership, Everton won the 1989 FA Cup, ending a 14-year trophy drought.

However, Harvey’s managerial stint was short-lived, and he was relieved of his duties in 1990. Despite his relatively brief tenure as a manager, Colin Harvey left an indelible mark on Everton’s history as both a player and a manager, showcasing his dedication and commitment to the club.

Alex Young

Alex Young, also known as “The Golden Vision,” had a remarkable career at Everton. Born in Scotland in 1937, Young joined Everton in 1960. He quickly made an impact, showcasing his exceptional skill and vision on the field. Young’s elegant playing style and ability to create scoring opportunities endeared him to the fans.

During his time at Everton, from 1960 to 1968, Young played as an attacking midfielder and forward. He was a key player in the 1962-63 season when Everton won the league title. Young’s technical prowess and creativity made him a formidable force, scoring crucial goals and providing assists for his teammates.

Young’s performances earned him widespread acclaim and recognition, and he became a beloved figure in the Everton faithful. He possessed great ball control, dribbling ability, and a clinical finishing touch. His contributions to the club’s success and entertaining style of play cemented his status as an Everton legend.

Kevin Ratcliffe

Kevin Ratcliffe had a remarkable career at Everton Football Club. He joined the club’s youth system in 1977 and quickly rose through the ranks to make his first-team debut in 1980. Ratcliffe was a central defender known for his strong tackling and leadership qualities. Under the management of Howard Kendall, he became an integral part of Everton’s success during the 1980s.

Ratcliffe captained the team to numerous trophies, including two First Division titles in 1984-85 and 1986-87. He also led Everton to victory in the FA Cup in 1984 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1985. Known for his calmness under pressure and defensive prowess, Ratcliffe was widely regarded as one of the best defenders of his era.

Injuries hindered Ratcliffe’s later years at Everton, and he left the club in 1992 after making over 450 appearances. He had a brief spell at other clubs before retiring from professional football. Ratcliffe’s legacy at Everton remains significant, as he is remembered as a key figure in the club’s successful period and a symbol of defensive excellence.

Peter Reid

Peter Reid had a notable and successful career at Everton Football Club. He joined the club in 1982 and became an influential figure in the midfield. Reid’s tireless work rate, tenacity, and ability to control the game made him a fan favourite. He played a vital role in Everton’s triumphs during the 1980s.

Under the management of Howard Kendall, Reid was an integral part of the team that won the English First Division title in 1984-85 and 1986-87. He was known for his strong tackling and excellent distribution skills, helping to orchestrate Everton’s attacking play. Reid’s partnership with Kevin Sheedy on the left flank was particularly impressive.

Reid’s contributions extended beyond the domestic scene. Everton also achieved success in European competitions during his time at the club. They won the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1984-85, with Reid playing a crucial role in the midfield.

Overall, Peter Reid’s career at Everton was marked by his dedication, technical ability, and leadership qualities. His performances on the pitch helped Everton achieve significant success and left a lasting impact on the club and its supporters.

Duncan Ferguson

Duncan Ferguson, affectionately known as “Big Dunc,” is a legendary figure in Everton Football Club’s history. The Scottish striker joined Everton in 1994 and became an iconic figure during his two spells with the club. Ferguson was known for his physical presence, aerial ability, and passionate playing style.

During his time at Everton, Ferguson scored important goals and played a crucial role in the team’s success. He became a fan favourite, adored for his commitment and never-say-die attitude on the pitch. Ferguson’s most memorable moments include scoring in the Merseyside derbies against Liverpool and his towering headers that earned vital wins for Everton.

In total, Ferguson made over 191 appearances for Everton, scoring more than 70 goals. He also represented Scotland in international competitions. After retiring as a player, Ferguson transitioned into coaching and stayed loyal to Everton, serving as an assistant manager and caretaker manager on multiple occasions.

Ferguson’s impact on Everton’s history and his bond with the fans have made him a legendary figure at the club, ensuring his name will forever be etched in Everton’s folklore.