He told Everton News: "Look, I grew up as an Everton fan. I think that’s common knowledge, but the first scout that came up to me was Jim Aspinall, who is sadly no longer with us, but he was adamant he wanted me to ply my trade at Liverpool.
"I actually played a game for Everton. I was 14 and played an U18 game. I came on as a substitute. I was tiny when I was 14, and I think we won the game. So, I have actually worn a shirt for Everton. I don’t think I’ve ever told anyone this, but I have worn an Everton shirt and won a game at Bellefield. Everton were desperate for me.
"The Everton academy manager, Graham Smith, was sending me tickets for games, shorts signed by the players, shirts, and he just really wanted me to go to Everton."