Premier League side Everton have announced a new strategic partnership with League of Ireland outfit Sligo Rovers.
The two clubs have interlinked histories, with some legendary figures lining out for both sides over the years.
Of course, the first player that comes to mind is undoubtedly Seamus Coleman, the current Ireland and Everton captain who joined the Toffees from Sligo Rovers in 2009.
However, Sligo Rovers was also the brief home of Everton legend William 'Dixie' Dean at the tail end of the 1930s.
The new strategic partnership between the two sides will see "partner on initiatives and cross-promotional activities ranging from fan engagement, marketing, content collaborations and tailored membership packages to the development of joint football summer camps and the opportunity for pre-season training bases for Academy teams at both clubs."
We are delighted to announce a new strategic partnership with League of Ireland Premier Division club Sligo Rovers. 🔵
— Everton (@Everton) January 12, 2021
The partnership will also see the clubs exchange knowledge across coaching and business operations.
It isn't the first strategic partnership for Everton, with the Merseyside club operating an existing partnership with Chilean club Everton de Vina del Mar.
Everton's Director of Marketing, Communications and Community, Richard Kenyon has said "is another step in our own international growth plans and offers clear benefits to both clubs."
"From joint fan engagement opportunities, events and business knowledge exchange to soccer camps, academy training bases and access to Sligo Rovers’ scouting network - it is an exciting collaboration."
Sligo Rovers chairman Donal Higgins echoed the sentiment of his Everton colleague, calling it a momentous day for the club.
“This is a very positive day for Sligo Rovers. We have a shared history with Everton Football Club over many decades and I also believe we have the same principles and ambitions to grow. They are a perfect fit for us for a collaboration such as this.
“Partnering with Everton will allow us to improve in many key areas, such as commercial activity, fan services and also the development of our academy coaches, which is of utmost importance.
“We have very talented staff and a group of coaches at the club who will learn and develop from the basis of this link-up.
“We hope it is the beginning of a very fruitful partnership and perhaps, in time, more names will be added to those that have proudly represented Sligo Rovers and Everton."
Seamus Coleman also weighed in on the partnership, stating his delight at two clubs "close to his heart" collaborating in such a way.
"I’ll be forever grateful to Sligo for giving me my start in professional football and for helping to pave the way for my move to Everton, the Club I am proud to captain and represent each and every day.
"This partnership will benefit both clubs and, in particular, can provide support to Sligo from the social and economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic."
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