777 Partners to veto Everton talks to seal behind-the-scenes agreement due to controversy

After the recent incident at Aston Villa, 777 Partners must have the final say on whether Everton switches the manufacturer of their uniforms to Castore.

As reported by The Telegraph (2 October), the Toffees are set to switch from Hummel to the British manufacturer, who currently

makes the kits for Rangers and Newcastle United.

The Villans’ Castore-designed uniform, however, sparked new debate this year. The excessive amount of sweat that the kits collect

makes them bulky and exposing. If their acquisition goes through, 777 should refuse to approve this and choose a different

manufacturer.

777 has had a bad history with Castore already. Genoa, a 777-owned club, terminated its multi-year deal with Castore after a single

year due to delivery and supply issues.

But the controversy over at Villa Park would be the main point of contention for the deal. Villa have subsequently terminated their

relationship with the brand and are seeking a new partnership for next season. The Toffees would not want to make the same mistake.

Aston Villa players have complained that the shirt is impacting their performances, and the Toffees certainly don’t need anything else

to hinder their performances on the pitch. While Castore will be unlikely to make the same mistake again in an effort to avoid another

high-profile controversy, 777’s previous history with the company may deter them from reigniting their relationship.

Even though Sevilla and Castore have also committed to a collaboration, 777 only owns a small portion of the La Liga team and hence

may not have much influence over their agreement.

Castore’s reputation has suffered greatly. The large market for football gear makers was successfully disrupted, but the setback in

Birmingham will jeopardise any future business negotiations. Everton shouldn’t be looking to take on further risks.