My First Football Shirt: James Dart

If you don't follow James Dart on Twitter, do it. Do it right now. The Guardian's digital editor, James Dart is the master at finding random football moments.  We spoke to him about dull Everton kits, effortlessly cool Italian shirts and a couple of magnificent Sinclair goals as part of the latest in our My First Football Shirt series. 

What was your first ever football shirt?

The monstrosity that is the Everton 1985-86 home shirt. While being born into the misery that is supporting Plymouth Argyle, a short-lived top-flight glory-supporting soft spot was reserved for Lineker and co. Possibly out of sympathy for this kit.

Gary Lineker, Everton#EFC #Everton #Toffees pic.twitter.com/ySPnuqZl2t

— Football Memories (@footballmemorys) July 27, 2018

What is your favourite ever football shirt?

𝒞𝒾𝒶ℴ 𝒱𝓊𝒿𝒶 💙

7 years without you: 27 April 2014 - 27 April 2021 pic.twitter.com/99UXoKAK25

— Sampdoria English (@sampdoria_en) April 27, 2021

My favourite shirt is the Sampdoria 1990-91 made by Asics.  It was blue, the badge, the collar, the maker and even the sponsor. Effortlessly cool. Especially on Roberto Mancini.

What is your favourite ever goal?  

A simply superb Trevor Sinclair scissor kick ✂️ #GoalOfTheDay pic.twitter.com/maa52GPsZF

— Premier League (@premierleague) December 24, 2021

In the flesh, Scott Sinclair flying down Underhill for Plymouth vs. Barnet. On television, Trevor Sinclair. The outward curl of the stood-up cross is often overlooked as to just how hard it was to score from that position.

Thanks to James for speaking with us! 

If you want to read more about the football memories of players, writers, and more you can buy the full Your First Football Shirt book. Discover Alan Shearer's first ever football shirt, Carl Anka's most cherished shirt and more. All proceeds go to the charities CALM and Willow.