Gary Lineker has sent a message to his former Everton teammate Graeme Sharp after the ex-striker joined the club’s board of directors.
Everton confirmed the appointment on Wednesday , joining in a non-executive role as he continues his long-held association with the club.
Blues legend Sharp joined the club from Dumbarton in 1980 and went on to score 160 goals for Everton, the second-highest only behind Dixie Dean.
Lineker formed a formidable strike partnership with the Scotsman during his single season at Goodison, which saw the Match of the Day presenter score 30 league goals in the 1985/86 campaign.
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Quoting a tweet form The Times’ football writer Henry Winter which referred to Sharp’s “footballing experience and expertise” as well as his passion for Everton , Lineker said:
“Agreed. Having had the good fortune to have played alongside him for a season, I can confirm all of the below. Wish him well.”
Now aged 61, Sharp won two league titles during his time with Everton, as well as the FA Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup, playing a pivotal role in a highly-successful era in the club’s history.
After leaving the Blues for Oldham in 1991, Sharp eventually replaced Joe Royle in the Latics’ dugout as player-manager from 1994 until 1997, followed by a season in charge of Bangor City.
Sharp had held an ambassadorial role with the Toffees since 2000, but has given up that title upon being appointed to the club’s board of directors, a club statement said.
“This club is in my blood," Sharp said.
"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.
“I look forward to working with my fellow board members and take my responsibility as a custodian of our great Club very seriously.”
