Everton have appointed Graeme Sharp to their board of directors.
The Goodison Park legend, who netted 160 goals for Everton as a player – a figure second only to Dixie Dean – in 447 matches, will become a non-executive director, and while he will remain the club’s players’ Life President, will relinquish all other club duties to focus on his role on the board.
The ECHO understands that the move is not part of the club’s strategic football review in the wake of Marcel Brands’ departure and plans to elevate Sharp have been in the offing for several months.
Sharp, 61, who first joined Everton as a player from Dumbarton in 1980, said: “This club is in my blood. I have enjoyed many great days as a Blue – and joining the Board and being able to play a part in shaping Everton’s future is one of the greatest honours of all.
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“I look forward to working with my fellow board members and take my responsibility as a custodian of our great Club very seriously.”
Everton Chairman Bill Kenwright added: “We were determined to have someone join us with not only great knowledge of Everton but also extensive football insight and experience.
"Someone who could support and challenge. And in Sharpy’s case we’ve got this in abundance.”
Such extensive football insight and experience are expected to see Sharp’s role on the board reflecting that of other former players in similar positions such as Sir Kenny Dalglish at Liverpool and Mark Bright at Crystal Palace.
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