Hugely skilful and with the ability to drift forward to create openings and goals out of next-to-nothing, he was an integral part of the Everton set-up between 1974 and 1979.

After five years at Goodison he returned to Burley for £100,000 before taking over as Bury's player-manager in 1984.

He later served brief spells as manager of Northwich Victoria and Bristol Rovers before returning to Burnley to become head of youth development.

"I still look out for Everton's results all the time," he smiled. "I was very fortunate to play for two super teams in Burnley and Everton and very lucky that the majority of my playing career was with those two clubs."