Few clubs have a history as rich as Everton’s and to celebrate the launch of the Blues’ new 2014/15 home kit, new technical partner Umbro has released a film featuring 11 people who capture the ‘Fabric of Everton’.
The 11 stars of the ‘Fabric of Everton’ video are:
1. Tom Gardner, the oldest living ex-player, Fabric since 1947
2. Graeme Sharp, striker, Fabric since 1980
3. Steve Johnson, Everton in the Community, Fabric since 2003
4. Seamus Coleman, right-back, Fabric since 2009
5. Michelle Hinnigan, midfield, Fabric since 2003
6. John Manville, painter and decorator, Fabric since 1978
7. Duncan Ferguson, striker, Fabric since 1994
8. Jimmy Martin, kit man, Fabric since 1990
9. Phil Jagielka, centre back, Fabric since 2007
10. Roberto Martinez, manager, Fabric since 2013
11. Ross Barkley, midfield, Fabric since 2005
In 1924, the same year Umbro was founded, Everton won the ‘Barcelona Cup’ in Spain [beating Newcastle United 3-2] wearing royal blue shirts, white shorts and navy socks.
Umbro has taken inspiration from this strip and used modern performance technologies to create the new 2014/15 home kit.
The new home kit will be available to pre-order from 10pm tonight on evertondirect.com.
The home shirt, in classic Everton blue, features a woven granddad collar in dark navy with a concealed top button to give a smart visual.
The shoulders of the shirt are reinforced with flat lock stitching, and the side seams have been moved forwards to reduce friction. In addition, the seams are stitched to the outside of the garment and covered with a fabric overlay so the inside is smooth.
The jersey also offers moisture-wicking properties whilst a knitted shadow stripe gives the lightweight shirt a stylist finish.
On the back of the shirt there are also eight die-cut ventilation holes to keep players cool.
The top eyelet on each side is in the shape of the iconic Toffee Tower, giving a unique sign-off for the Club.
Commenting on the kit, Everton manager Roberto Martinez said: “The fans, players and staff make up the fabric of this football club and I am proud to be considered a part of that.
"Umbro has created a unique technical kit which I’m sure both players and fans will be proud to wear. It has been inspired by our Club’s glorious past, however its quality and design are very much for the modern day era and I remain confident it will help us to perform to our full potential on the pitch in the Premier League and in Europe.”
Everton fans can share their ‘Fabric Since’ date via social media using #efcFABRIC.
Everton’s new home kit is available to pre-order from 10pm tonight and is available for men, women, juniors, infants and babies. It goes on sale on 17 July.