A Fighter’s Love for Everton
UFC star Molly McCann has always worn her heart on her sleeve, both in the octagon and off it. As a proud Evertonian, she recently took the time to reveal her all-time Everton XI ahead of the highly anticipated Merseyside derby on Wednesday night. This selection, rooted in a blend of nostalgia and current form, offers a fascinating glimpse into her passions beyond the world of mixed martial arts. Everton, known for their rich history and passionate fanbase, has seen many legends grace their hallowed turf, and McCann’s choices reflect a deep appreciation for the club’s storied past and present.
The Goalkeeping Dilemma
For the goalkeeper position, McCann made a choice that might raise a few eyebrows. She opted for the iconic "Big Nev," Neville Southall, over the current first-choice keeper, Jordan Pickford. "So my Everton top 11, I am going classic 4-4-2, we are just going to hoof it up top and hope for the best," she explained. "I also just want to apologise to Jordan Pickford, I know you are the absolute boy, you really are, but Big Nev now, and then when you finish, it will be you." Southall, who spent two decades between the posts for Everton, has a legendary status that is hard to ignore. His commanding presence and numerous heroic saves have cemented his place in the hearts of many fans, including McCann.
The Steely Backline
McCann’s defense is a blend of old and new, reflecting Everton’s ability to maintain a strong tradition while embracing modern talent. "Centre-back on the right, I am going James Tarkowski, I just love him and I think he has been a good captain for us now," she said, highlighting Tarkowski’s leadership and defensive prowess. On the left, she chose Phil Jagielka, a player she admires for his resilience and goal-scoring ability. "I admire Jags because he just never really looked like that much of an athlete, but he could pace it everywhere and score them absolute blinder goals whenever you needed them," McCann added. Completing the backline are Seamus Coleman, "60 grand, 60 grand Seamus Coleman," and Leighton Baines, both known for their technical skills and indefatigable work ethic.
The Dynamic Midfield
In the midfield, McCann’s selections are no less impressive. She recognized the versatility of Wayne Rooney, a true Everton legend, by dropping him into a central role. "On his other side, I’ll have Tim Cahill, and on the right side of midfield, Andrei Kanchelskis," she said. Cahill, an Australian midfielder who left an indelible mark with his acrobatic goals and tireless running, is a personal favorite of McCann. Kanchelskis, the winger who terrorized defenses with his pace and skill, adds the necessary width and creativity. This midfield setup promises a mix of attacking flair and tactical discipline, essential for navigating the intense derby atmosphere.
The Striking Duo
Moving up to the attacking positions, McCann’s choices are quintessentially Everton. "Up top, obviously our boy Dixie Dean and big Duncan Ferguson," she declared. Dixie Dean, the club’s all-time leading goalscorer with over 300 goals, is a straightforward inclusion due to his unparalleled goal-scoring record. Duncan Ferguson, with his physical presence and leadership, complements Dean perfectly. Their combination represents the best of Everton’s attacking heritage, a blend of raw power and clinical finishing that has defined the club’s style of play for generations.
The Captaincy Controversy
The most surprising and potentially controversial selection is the captaincy. McCann decided to hand the armband to Tim Cahill, a move that could leave a certain Premier League icon with a bruised ego. "As manager, it is Howard Kendall, and for the captain, I just want to personally apologise to our Wayne, but I am giving it to Cahill," she said. Wayne Rooney, a product of the Everton academy, has been a beloved figure for the Toffees, making 117 appearances across two spells and scoring 28 goals. However, Cahill’s ability to inspire and his game-changing performances often in crucial moments made him an irresistible choice for McCann. This decision underscores the depth of Everton’s talent pool and the club’s ability to produce leaders who can motivate the team in the heat of battle.
Preparing for the Derby
Everton head into the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park in 16th place, riding a wave of three consecutive wins under new manager David Moyes. Moyes, who has made a positive impression since his return, is optimistic about the team’s prospects. "Moyes says Everton first impressions ‘all positive’, talks transfer window plans," a recent video from TNT Sports highlights. Despite their recent upturn in form, Everton face a formidable challenge against Liverpool, the league leaders. Liverpool will be out for revenge after their unexpected loss to Plymouth on Sunday, adding an extra layer of intensity to the derby. For fans like McCann, the Merseyside derby is more than just a game; it’s a battle of pride and passion, and her all-time XI is a testament to the enduring legacy of Everton in football. Tune in to TNT Sports and discovery+ to catch all the action and emotion of this historic clash.
