Kevin Ratcliffe

When Ratcliffe joined Everton as an apprentice in 1977, he immediately made an impression by challenging the entire first-team squad to a sprint race—and winning. His pace became a hallmark of his game, often outpacing even the quickest opponents.

A fascinating anecdote from his post-playing days suggests that shortly after the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, Ratcliffe allegedly got into a friendly altercation with Olympic 100m gold medallist Linford Christie in a South London bar. The two reportedly took their rivalry to the street, where Ratcliffe claims he emerged victorious in a sprint.

Ratcliffe made his first-team debut for Everton in 1980 but didn’t establish himself as a regular until 1982. By 1983, at the age of 23, he was appointed captain, a role in which he thrived as he led the team through one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.

Under his captaincy, Everton achieved remarkable success, including:

• Winning the FA Cup in 1984.
• Securing the Football League Championship in 1985 and 1987.
• Triumphing in the 1985 European Cup Winners’ Cup.

In addition to these major honours, Ratcliffe also captained Everton in two other FA Cup finals, solidifying his legacy as one of the club’s greatest leaders.

During his Everton career, Ratcliffe made an impressive 461 appearances, scoring two goals. While not known for his technical flair, he excelled with his anticipation, ferocious tackling, and a no-nonsense approach to defending. His ability to read the game and execute the basics with precision made him an invaluable part of Everton’s defence.

After leaving Everton in 1991, Ratcliffe continued his playing career with Cardiff City, followed by short spells at Dundee, Nottingham Forest, and Derby County.

Kevin Ratcliffe’s legacy as a footballer remains intact, and his incredible pace and leadership continue to inspire discussions among fans and pundits alike. A true icon of Everton and Welsh football, his impact on the game endures as a testament to his dedication and talent.