SYLVESTER STALLONE declared himself an Everton supporter after being knocked out by his reception at Goodison yesterday.
The Hollywood legend was in Liverpool to promote his new film, Rocky Balboa, which opens later this week.
Stallone, 60, attended yesterday's Premiership game between Everton and Reading as guest of Everton shareholder Robert Earl, founder of the Planet Hollywood chain of restaurants backed by the actor.
After Stallone's four-limousine entourage pulled up outside the stadium, the American stepped out to greet Everton supporters lining the streets, shaking hands and signing autographs.
Some fans had adapted their Everton kits to welcome the actor while one brought a pair of Rocky's familiar Stars and Stripes boxing shorts for Stallone to sign.
He then received a tumultuous reception when presented on the pitch to fans inside the ground before taking his seat in the Goodison directors' box alongside Earl and Everton chairman Bill Kenwright to watch the 1-1 draw.
And Stallone, who famously played a goalkeeper in the 1981 film Escape to Victory, was so taken by the occasion that he has promised to return.
"It's been amazing," said Stallone. "I bribed all these people and they've all shown up!
"I've never been to Liverpool before and it's really heart warming the way everyone has come along.
"I'm going to shout for Everton, but they'll have to dub my voice in later.
"I've never seen anything like this level. This is a legendary club. I am used to the superficial level that we've had in America and seen it on TV but when you're there, and see the impact, it's great.
"There's no question that I'll be coming back for another game, definitely."
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