11 Everton Facts Every Fan Needs to Know

Everton Football Club, one of the oldest and most celebrated clubs in English football, has a rich history filled with remarkable moments. From record-breaking players to iconic stadium milestones, the "Toffees" have established themselves as a cornerstone of the Premier League. Here are 11 must-know facts about Everton that every fan, whether new or seasoned, should be aware of.

1. Everton Is a Founder Member of the Football League

Everton was one of the 12 original clubs that founded the Football League in 1888. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of organized professional football in England. Since then, Everton has been a regular in the top flight, only being relegated twice in its long history. They remain one of the most consistent teams in English football, a testament to their enduring legacy.

2. Goodison Park: The First Purpose-Built Football Stadium

Everton’s home ground, Goodison Park, holds a special place in football history. Built in 1892, it was the first purpose-built football stadium in England, setting a trend for future club grounds. Goodison Park has been Everton’s fortress for over a century and has hosted numerous iconic matches, including World Cup fixtures in 1966. Though the club plans to move to a new stadium, Goodison Park will forever be remembered for its contributions to football history.

3. The Origin of the Nickname “The Toffees”

Ever wonder why Everton is called "The Toffees"? The nickname comes from a toffee shop called "Mother Noblett's," which was located near the club’s original home at Anfield. According to Bitcointalk thread, the shop sold Everton Mints, a sweet that became synonymous with the team. Even after the move to Goodison Park, the nickname stuck, and today, fans proudly call themselves the "Toffees."

4. Partnerships with Sports Betting Companies

In recent years, like many football clubs, Everton has formed partnerships with sports betting companies. Most notably, Everton secured a lucrative multi-year deal with Stake.com, one of the world’s largest crypto-based betting platforms, which became the club's main shirt sponsor in 2022. This partnership provides significant financial backing and visibility for the club, reflecting its forward-thinking commercial strategy. Fans who are interested in betting on soccer can even do so with modern options like cryptocurrency. You can bet on soccer with bitcoin at https://sportbet.one/sports/soccer and experience a secure and fast betting platform. This shift to online and crypto-based sports betting has helped Everton stay competitive, both on and off the pitch​.

5. The Legendary Dixie Dean

No list of Everton facts would be complete without mentioning William Ralph “Dixie” Dean, one of the greatest strikers the game has ever seen. In the 1927-28 season, Dean scored an incredible 60 league goals, a record that still stands today. He was a legend not just at Everton but in English football as a whole, and his statue outside Goodison Park is a fitting tribute to his contributions.

6. Everton’s Dominance in the 1980s

The 1980s were a golden era for Everton. Under the management of Howard Kendall, the club won two league titles (1984-85 and 1986-87), an FA Cup (1984), and a European Cup Winners’ Cup (1985). This period is remembered fondly by Everton fans, as the team dominated both domestically and in Europe. Players like Graeme Sharp, Kevin Ratcliffe, and Neville Southall became legends during this time.

7. The Merseyside Derby

One of the most fierce and celebrated rivalries in football is the Merseyside Derby, where Everton faces Liverpool. The two teams are separated by just a mile, with their stadiums located on either side of Stanley Park. This proximity adds to the intensity of the rivalry, and the matches are often emotional affairs. The first Merseyside Derby was played in 1894, and it has remained one of English football’s most exciting fixtures ever since. Similar to other historic derbies like the Milan Derby between Inter Milan and AC Milan, the Merseyside Derby brings out passion in players and fans alike.

8. A Record FA Cup History

Everton’s FA Cup history is rich and storied, with the club winning the prestigious trophy five times. Their most recent FA Cup victory came in 1995, when they defeated Manchester United 1-0 in the final, with Paul Rideout scoring the decisive goal. Everton has reached the FA Cup final a total of 13 times, showcasing their competitiveness in the knockout format over the years.

9. First Club to Wear Numbered Shirts

Everton made football history in 1933 by becoming the first team to wear numbered shirts during their FA Cup final match against Manchester City. This simple but revolutionary change helped the sport become more organized and viewer-friendly, allowing fans to easily identify players on the pitch.

10. Strong International Presence

While Everton is often seen as a traditionally English club, their influence has extended far beyond the UK. Over the years, the club has had a host of international players contribute to its success, from South African midfielder Steven Pienaar to Australian star Tim Cahill. This international flavor has strengthened the club's appeal globally, bringing in fans from all corners of the world.

11. Future Move to Bramley-Moore Dock

Everton’s future is set to take a new and exciting direction with their upcoming move to the Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium, which is expected to be completed in the next few years. This state-of-the-art facility will boast modern amenities while keeping the club’s rich heritage alive. The move represents a significant moment for Everton, as they look to maintain their standing in the Premier League and beyond, while also embracing the future of football.

Final Thoughts

Everton Football Club’s rich history, combined with its commitment to growth and innovation, makes it one of the most intriguing teams in world football. Whether it’s the legendary players, iconic stadium moments, or modern commercial partnerships, there’s no denying the depth of this club’s influence on the beautiful game. These 11 facts offer a glimpse into the legacy that continues to shape Everton’s identity, both on and off the pitch.