Dixie Dean – a name every Everton fan knows and reveres. Born in Birkenhead, he became one of the towering figures of English football during his era. His 1927–1928 season is particularly legendary, as Dean set a goalscoring record that remains unbroken to this day. So, join us at iliverpool.info as we explore Dixie Dean’s contribution to football history, his importance to the sport, the city, and his club, and find out what makes him a true legend.
The Birth of a Legend: Early Life and First Steps in Football
William Ralph “Dixie” Dean was born on 22 January 1907 in Birkenhead, just across the Mersey from Liverpool. His family, on both his father’s and mother’s side, had strong roots in Chester. From a young age, Willie, as he was known before gaining the nickname ‘Dixie’, developed a passion for football and fell in love with Everton FC. His grandfather, Ralph Brett, was a respected figure—a royal train driver during the reign of King George V.
Dean was a regular at Goodison Park with his father, especially during the 1914/1915 season when Everton won the league title. But Dean didn’t just watch football; he played it, demonstrating extraordinary talent and passion from the start. It’s no surprise that when Everton’s next era of success arrived, Dean was at the heart of it.
However, our hero’s journey to his dream club wasn’t immediate. He first played for his local side, Tranmere Rovers, where he scored an impressive 27 goals in one season. It was this remarkable form that caught the attention of Everton’s scouts.
In 1925, at the age of 18, Dean signed for Everton. The transfer fee was £3,000—a substantial sum at the time. He made his debut for the club that same year, and his first few matches immediately proved it was money exceptionally well spent. His pace, technique, and natural instinct for goal instantly captured the attention of the footballing world.
Everton in the 1920s: A Time of Change and Records
The 1920s were a period of transformation for both Everton and English football as a whole. Dean joined the club during a spell of instability, with results that were far from satisfying for the fans. However, Dixie’s incredible performances changed everything. In the 1927–1928 season, he scored an astonishing 60 goals in 39 league matches, making him the highest single-season goalscorer in the history of English top-flight football.
This record was set in England’s First Division (the equivalent of today’s Premier League). Even modern football superstars have not come close to matching it, although a fair comparison must consider the different nature of the game back then. For instance, many teams played with just two defenders in a 2-3-5 formation, often leading to higher-scoring matches. Regardless, thanks to Dean’s goals, Everton were crowned league champions that season, and Goodison Park became a must-visit destination for football fans from all over Britain.
Dean could score in many ways, but he was most famous for his incredible heading ability. It was his trademark, and it’s estimated that around half of his career goals were headers. The man from Birkenhead also possessed phenomenal dribbling skills and an uncanny knack for finding space to shoot. His on-field exploits were the stuff of legend. For the Merseyside club, Dean’s loyalty was just as valuable. Without that commitment, a hero can quickly become a villain.
Career Highlights
Across his Everton career, he scored a staggering 383 goals in 433 appearances in all competitions. It’s an unbelievable record, especially when you consider that a ratio of one goal every two games is considered good for a modern striker!
In 1933, Dean helped Everton win the FA Cup, scoring in the semi-final. The final was the first in English football history where players wore numbered shirts.
Unfortunately, Everton experienced a dip in form and were relegated to the Second Division in 1930. But Dean stayed loyal to the club, helping them win promotion back to the top flight at the first attempt the very next season.
Dean also starred for the England national team. He scored 18 goals in just 16 appearances, proving his class at the highest international level.
Dean’s Legacy: What He Means to Liverpool and Everton
Liverpool was already a city with rich footballing traditions, but Dixie Dean elevated its status to new heights. For Everton fans, he became a symbol of success that has inspired generations of supporters. In 2001, a statue of the great man was unveiled outside Goodison Park. It was created by sculptor Tom Murphy, known for his works dedicated to prominent Liverpool figures. Here are a few facts about it:
- The statue is located near the main entrance to Goodison Park and has become a popular meeting point for fans before matches.
- It is a life-sized sculpture, making it incredibly realistic.
- Dean is depicted in a dynamic pose, capturing the energy of his legendary playing style.
Dean retired from playing in 1939 but remained forever in the hearts of the fans. He continued to be involved in club events and stayed connected to the football community until his death in 1980. His name was, and still is, always mentioned in conversations about the greatest players of all time.
Dixie Dean passed away at Goodison Park while watching an Everton match. It was a moment that symbolically underscored his lifelong connection to his beloved club and city. His incredible records continue to inspire fans and future generations of players alike.