Top five players to play for both Liverpool and Everton

The competition between Liverpool and Everton is undeniably one of the most significant and intense rivalries in English football. The Merseyside derby pertains to the contests held between Liverpool and Everton. These two English clubs have a long-standing history of rivalry.

The stadiums of these clubs are located close to each other, intensifying the excitement and rivalry between their fans on the day of the derby matches. While the disparity in quality between the two teams may currently be at its peak, both clubs remain among the most successful in the history of the nation. The Merseyside Derby continues to be a fiercely contested and dynamic event, irrespective of the current circumstances of each club, maintaining its historical intensity.

A total of 28 players have represented Everton prior to transferring to Liverpool, either through a direct move or via another club, while 18 players have made the transition in the opposite direction.

In this article, let’s look at the top five players who played for both Liverpool and Everton.

5. David Johnson

David Johnson, a striker hailing from Liverpool, distinguished himself as a prolific goal scorer for both the Reds and Everton, making significant contributions in derby matches for each club. In 1982, following his success in securing four league titles, two European Cups, and a League Cup with Liverpool, Johnson departed from Anfield to return to his original club, Everton. He made 92 appearances for the Toffees, scoring 20 goals. In contrast, during his time with the Reds, he played 213 matches and found the back of the net 78 times.

4. Johnny Morrissey

He played a pivotal role in two of the most remarkable teams in Everton's history during the 1960s. The left winger achieved prominence with Liverpool prior to being transferred to their fierce rivals, all without the awareness of a furious Bill Shankly. Morrissey made an impressive debut by scoring in a 2-2 draw against the Reds. He subsequently played a significant role in assisting the Toffees to secure the league title in the 1962/63 season during his inaugural year, and he continued to be an essential member of the squad that achieved the same success seven years later.

3. Steve McMahon

He represented both clubs, yet he is predominantly remembered with great affection by the supporters of Liverpool. Steve McMahon, who once served as a ball-boy at Goodison Park, commenced his playing career with his childhood club, Everton, where he achieved a remarkable milestone of one hundred appearances. Acquired from Aston Villa by Kenny Dalglish as his inaugural signing upon taking the managerial position at Liverpool in 1985, the tenacious midfielder secured three league titles and two FA Cups during his tenure with the club.

2. Kevin Sheedy

It is widely acknowledged that Kevin Sheedy will predominantly be remembered as an Everton player rather than one associated with Liverpool. He participated in only five matches for the Reds, during which he netted two goals. He is regarded by many as the finest left-footed player in the history of Everton. The midfielder from the Republic of Ireland achieved four major accolades while playing for Howard Kendall’s team, including two league championships, the FA Cup, and the European Cup Winners' Cup.

1. Peter Beardsley

One of the only players who is likely to be claimed by both sets of supporters. He previously played for Manchester United during the earlier stages of his career. He departed from Anfield with two league championships and an FA Cup to his name. In 1991, he joined Everton, with the club paying £1 million to the Reds for the 30-year-old player's contract. He played 95 games for them and scored 32 goals during the two years he was at Goodison Park. He was unable to assist them in achieving a position significantly above the mid-table. Supporters admired him for both his character and his performance during matches.

Cover Credits - Goal.com