Everton’s record-holding goal scorer Dixie Dean will be remembered alongside his friend Bill Shankly in an iconic statue.

The sculpture which will be between the Shankly Hotel and the forthcoming Dixie Dean Hotel development, will mark the beginning of Liverpool's new 'football quarter'.

Born in Birkenhead in 1907, Dixie played for Laird Street School, Moreton Bible Class, Heswall and Pensby United before beginning his professional career at Tranmere Rovers.

He scored 349 goals in 399 matches with Everton and it’s thought that in today’s transfer market, he’d be worth more than £100 million.

Work on the new Dixie Dean development is already underway and plans to transform the area into a football quarter have been submitted to local planners.

Bill Shankly's grandson and director of the Shankly Hotel, Chris Shankly-Carline said: “Bill Shankly and Dixie Dean are amongst the most iconic names in football history.

"Whether you’re a red or a blue, both men have a special place in the hearts of the people of Merseyside.

"Their achievements are legendary.

“This statue will celebrate their legacy and will also mean that the stories of two sporting icons, who were good friends despite representing rival teams, can be told and remembered in future generations.

"It will be an incredibly proud day for both the Shankly and Dean families when this statue is installed.” 

Dixie Dean’s grand-daughter, Melanie Prentice, said: "Not many families have the good fortune to admire a statue of their Grandad.

"Now Chris and my family will be in the unqiue position on Merseyside of being able to enjoy two."

"We're thrilled that my Grandad and Chris's will be arm in arm, together again as pals, just like they were in real life.”

Developers will seek permission from Liverpool City Council for the 8ft bronze statue in the coming weeks.