| NUMBER NINES |
| Everton have a great tradition of having fine centre forwards. Normally big, strong and bustling, the man in the famous Everton number nine shirt is always hugely popular with the fans. In the 1932/33 season Everton became the first football team ever to wear the numbers 1-11 when they stepped out for their 3-0 FA Cup Final victory over Manchester City, who wore the numbers 12-22. This of course meant that Dixie Dean was the first ever number nine. Since then, some the biggest names in the English game have worn the Royal Blue number nine shirt. Dave Hickson, Alex Young, Joe Royle, Bob Latchford, Graeme Sharp, Andy Gray, Duncan Ferguson and Kevin Campbell, to name just a few. Hopefully this fine tradition of Everton goalscorers will continue long into the future. |
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| "Bob Latchford was big, strong and brave. I celebrated his thirtieth goal by running onto the pitch. It was my first taste of the hallowed turf." Derek Mountfield, former Everton player "Rays of sunshine were few and far between in the 1970's and were usually provided by big, bustling, bearded Bob. The West Ham semi-final was typical of the decade - a goal from Latchford, then a last minute winner for the Hammers." Dave Prentice, Liverpool Echo "Bob Latchford was my hero. Big Bob was always in the right place at the right time. I watched him play when I was a schoolboy and tried to copy him. He was excellent at arriving at the near post before defenders and getting that important touch." Ian Rush, schoolboy Evertonian "It was an honour to play alongside Bill Dean. He loved the game and was respected by all. Every door on Merseyside was open to him." Stan Bentham, former Everton player and coach "Dave Hickson was my hero. He was always covered in blood, not always his own. Off the pitch he was a complete gentleman." Joe Royle, former Everton player and manager "Dave Hickson was a cult hero in the 1950's, a bit like Ferguson is today. But Hickson was far more intimidating." Tommy Eglington, former Everton player "Everton have had some great No 9's. Names like Dean, Lawton, Young, Latchford and Sharp come to mind. I think that Duncan Ferguson has tremendous potential, but still has a bit to do." Dave Hickson, former Everton player |