Former Beatle Paul McCartney
Former Beatle Paul McCartney REUTERS

Sir Paul McCartney has revealed his torn Merseyside loyalties by admitting he is friends with Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish but is an Everton supporter at heart.

The former Beatles star claims the aforementioned Liverpool manager came to one of the first Wings gigs in the 1970s, but his father was an Everton fan and therefore he finds himself routing for both sides in the famously partisan Merseyside derby.

Such is his affinity for Liverpool and their bitter rivals Everton, and in particular his lasting friendship with Anfield hero Kenny Dalglish, McCartney has invited all of the Reds and the entirety of David Moyes' squad to his tour ending gig which culminates at the Echo Arena.

McCartney admitted both Liverpool and Everton would be welcome to join him for the culmination of his 'On the Run Tour', but when pressed on which team he would like to win on derby day, The Beatles icon admitted he would have to side with the Toffees.

"Over the years I've become friends with (Liverpool boss) Kenny Dalglish - he came to one of the first Wings gigs and really supported us." The famous Everton fan told the Liverpool Echo.

"One time he brought the whole Liverpool team with him to a gig. He's always given us a lot of support.

"I hope he comes to the ECHO arena. I've got a ticket for him if he wants it. In fact the whole Liverpool team can come if they want to - and the Everton team too. We'll get them all in if they want to come."

Although McCartney revealed a deep admiration for both Everton and Liverpool, the 69-year-old suggests the former get his vote on derby day.

"My dad was born in Everton, so I'm an Evertonian. Yes, I'll cheer Liverpool on too. People say you can't support them both but I got a special dispensation from the Pope. But if it comes down to a derby match I would have to support Everton."

The former Beatles star admits regardless of his divided Merseyside loyalties between Everton and Liverpool, McCartney conceded it was always a pleasure to play in the city of his birth.

"I look forward to playing Liverpool more than anywhere else. I'd play in my old back garden if it meant I got to play my home town. Actually, that's the surprise - next year I'll be playing a show in my old back garden!" The boyhood Everton star concluded.

Liverpool host Everton in the season's second Merseyside derby on February 25 having won the corresponding fixture at Goodison 2-0 in October.