A number of players have achieved great things after leaving Everton.
Wayne Rooney became Manchester United’s record goalscorer with 253 strikes in 559 appearances following his departure from Everton in 2004.
More recently, Dominic Calvert-Lewin has thrived at Leeds since his release from the Hill Dickinson Stadium last summer, impressively netting eight goals in his last nine games.
Further down the English footballing ladder in League Two, a familiar face in Luke Garbutt has now achieved something special as well at Salford.
Luke Garbutt racks up 350th appearance after 2020 Everton exit
The former England U21 international was very highly rated during his time at Everton, breaking through at the age of 20 under Roberto Martinez and particularly impressing with his technical ability.
Which former Everton striker would you hypothetically bring back to play in the current side? 🤩
Garbutt’s sweet left foot and the fact he played at left-back even led some to compare him with Leighton Baines.
Unfortunately, the Everton academy graduate fell by the wayside at Goodison Park amid many managerial changes, and eventually moved to Blackpool on a free transfer in September 2020 after his contract expired – leaving Merseyside with just 12 appearances for the Toffees under his belt.
However, Garbutt eventually earned a move to Gary Neville’s Salford in June 2023, where he has settled and managed to showcase his talent, even earning the captaincy.
Now 32, the man born in Harrogate recently made his 350th career appearance in a 2-1 win over Barrow, with Salford recognising the achievement on Instagram.
The League Two outfit posted: “A recent milestone for @lukegarbutt29, ticking over 350 career appearances. Our captain and a continued credit to the club, congratulations Garbs.”
It is pleasing to see Garbutt find a place where people adore him, as the end of his time at Everton was particularly brutal.
Carlo Ancelotti had no idea who Luke Garbutt was while still at Everton
It is not often a manager forgets one of his own players, but that is exactly what happened back in June 2020 as Garbutt prepared to leave as a free agent.
Just how far could Carlo Ancelotti have taken Everton if he stuck around? 😫
Carlo Ancelotti was asked by a reporter: “I wondered if you had anything to say about Luke Garbutt, who is leaving the club after being there for 11 years. Why have you decided to release him?”
The Italian, clearly confused, replied: “Who?”
After a brief chat with the press officer, Ancelotti then said: “Sorry, but I am surprised about this question. I don’t know.”
Fortunately, Garbutt saw the funny side of the situation as he posted a link to the video along with several laughing emojis, before then uploading a video of a superb assist with the caption: “There you go Carlo look at what you’re missing @Everton.”
That admirable attitude has clearly helped him bounce back at Salford, where he is considered a firm fan favourite and obviously a dedicated professional with 350 appearances now under his belt.
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox
