Position: Midfielder Squad Number: 10 Former Clubs: Vejle Boldklub, Hamburger FC, Real Madrid, Celtic Date of Birth: 11/03/76 Transfer Fee: Loan
Thomas Gravesen returns to Everton on a year long loan from Celtic after more than two seasons away from Goodison Park.
The charismatic midfielder left Everton for the heights of La Liga in January 2005, leaving for Spanish giants Real Madrid. Despite his obvious talent, Gravesen’s tough style of play made it difficult for him to fit into a squad renowned for its style and flair, drawing criticism from Real fans.
His bust-up with team mate Robinho, following a typically hard challenge on the striker during a training session, did nothing to extend his stay in Madrid and just before the 2006-2007 season, interest in the player from abroad made it likely that the Dane would leave Spain.
It was Scottish side Celtic who would lure Gravesen from the Bernabeu, paying around £2m to sign the player on a three-year deal. Shortly after signing for the Bhoys, Gravesen, a central figure in the Danish side since 2000, announced his retirement from international football.
Originally signed for the Blues by Walter Smith in July 2000 for £2.5m, Gravesen’s first spell at Everton saw him develop into one of the best midfielders in his position and cement his reputation as a top quality international footballer.
Although slow to become a regular starting choice for Everton, by the season of his departure, Gravesen was turning in the type of performance which would attract the attention of both Manchester United and Real Madrid.
After his transfer to Celtic from Spain, Gravesen failed to establish himself and Gordon Strachan allowed him to look elsewhere for the upcoming 2006-2007 campaign.
David Moyes drafted in the Dane at the eleventh hour after Portuguese international Manuel Fernandes’ unexpectedly snubbed the Blues to join Valencia, leaving a hole in midfield which needed to be filled to ensure Everton could take on both the league campaign and the challenge of the UEFA cup.
‘Mad Dog’ Gravesen re-signed for Everton on the 30th of August 2007 and has stated his delight at returning to Premiership football.
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