TOFF AT THE TOP

TOMMY FLEETWOOD reckons his life as a long-suffering Everton fan gave him the strength and optimism to finally win his first PGA Tour event at the 164th attempt.

- BY NEIL McLEMAN

The Southport-born star claimed the $10m FedEx Cup in August before starring as the top points scorer in Europe's away Ryder Cup triumph.

But the Olympic silver medallist (below with the cup) had suffered years of heartache and near misses ~ just like his football team — before his breakthrough victory.

And the world No.3, who was born in 1991 and has no memory of Everton ever winning a trophy, said his upbringing as a Blues fan has helped him through the tough times in his golf career.