Once Everton has touched you, nothing will be the same. --Alan Ball
Traditionally one of the Big Five English soccer clubs, although Everton haven't won many trophies in recent years, they are currently undergoing a revival thanks to the management of Roberto Martinez and leadership of Bill Kenwright, the club's owner. Older than Liverpool, Everton have nearly as rich a history. Nine-time winners of the English League title and winners of the FA Cup on five occasions, they've sent out some of the greatest characters in English soccer on to the pitch at Goodison Park. From Dixie Dean, Tommy Lawton, and Alex Scott through Alan Ball, Bob Latchford, and Howard Kendall to Gary Lineker, Duncan Ferguson, Wayne Rooney, and Leighton Baines, few clubs can boast as many people with so much to say for themselves. Everton have a proud tradition, very loyal support, and this book, filled with more than 180 quotes from legendary Evertonians, aims to capture the flavor of both.