The 1996-97 campaign was a dramatic, turbulent fight for survival for Everton as The Toffees finished 15th in the Premier League, securing their top-flight status under caretaker manager Dave Watson. The season was defined by the mid-season sale of star Andrei Kanchelskis and the resignation of manager Joe Royle, which triggered a nervous battle against relegation. Leading the charge for goals in the iconic Danka-sponsored Umbro kit was talismanic striker Duncan Ferguson, whose 10 crucial league goals, including a memorable brace at Old Trafford, proved vital in achieving their hard-fought survival.