Everton has announced a new strategic partnership with League of Ireland Premier Division club Sligo Rovers, reports www.fcbusiness.co.uk

The new agreement will see Everton and Sligo Rovers 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.

There has been a wealth of links between both players and fans from the two clubs over the course of their histories.

Most notably, Seamus Coleman made the move from Sligo Rovers as a 20-year-old to join the Toffees in 2009. Coleman has gone on to make more than 300 appearances for the Blues and become captain for club and Country.

In 1939 Everton Giant Dixie Dean signed for Sligo Rovers, scoring 10 goals in seven games and inspiring The Bit O'Red to the final of the FAI Cup.

As part of the strategic partnership, the clubs will exchange knowledge across both coaching and business operations.