Everton box clever with Hollywood movie star's visit

Jan 16 2007 By Mark Lawrenson, Liverpool Daily Post

WE send the Americans Beckham, they send us Sly Stallone - I think we got the better deal.

He certainly seemed to have more of an impact than Muhammad Ali did when I was at Liverpool.

We caught a glimpse of him in the tunnel when he turned up as a guest at Birmingham City back in the 1980s and went to see their players before the game.

It was obviously very inspiring because we drew 0-0 - at least Everton and Reading had goals.

But football is showbiz now and while it's a great story to see Stallone in his Everton scarf and coat, it's got nothing to do with the fact that he's got that new Rocky film to plug, has it?

Still, it seemed to do the job as Everton got back up off the canvas and took Reading the distance.

I was a very good point, not just becasue Reading are a tough side who don't give in, but also as it didn't affect Everton's position too badly.

Outside the top four, only Middlesbrough and Newcastle won over the weekend so they didn't lose any ground in the race for Europe.

I just thought Everton lacked a bit of guile, which was probably because Arteta wasn't playing.

But you can never question their work-rate, endeavour and approach - so it's no wonder Rocky's such a big fan!

• SEE our picture gallery from when Rocky came to Goodison here

• Mark Lawrenson was talking to NICK SMITH