'The anti-hero who struck terror into defenders'

Every club has had a hard man - often adored by fans - but who is the ultimate tough operator in Everton's history? Chief football writer Phil McNulty is going through his top five on this page on Wednesday.

In second spot (scroll down to the post below for third place, and to 08:33 BST for fourth and fifth)...

Duncan Ferguson

'Big Dunc', the idol of Goodison Park, was the anti-hero Everton fans needed and loved when he arrived, initially on loan, from Rangers in late 1994.

Ferguson had the ability to strike terror into defenders, with then manager Joe Royle recalling his first match in charge being illuminated by the Scot, who was fired up after a foul by Liverpool's Neil Ruddock. He subsequently terrorised Liverpool's defence, something he made a habit of throughout his Everton career, by scoring his first goal for the club in a 2-0 win.

No-one took any liberties with Ferguson, with even some of the game's hardest figures making it their business not to cross him. Paul Ince, then Liverpool captain, was virtually picked up and thrown to the floor in another Merseyside derby at Anfield, "The Guv'nor" responding by gently ruffling Ferguson's hair in a friendly manner.

Ferguson's approach often edged into ill-discipline, with eight red cards in the Premier League - but there was also great ability to go with the fierce physical presence.

And, of course, Ferguson's reputation spread off the field. He served time in the notorious Barlinnie jail, and has told the story of how two burglars made the error of breaking into his house in the early hours while he was there with his family – and how they came off worse.

Who will top McNulty's list? Come back later on Wednesday to find out and have your say.