Signed from MLS side New England Revolution for a nominal sum in November 1999, Joe-Max Moore arrived on Merseyside a virtual unknown. The son of oilman, Carl Moore, who in the 1970s and 1980s had been co-owner of NASL team Tulsa Roughnecks, he had come to Everton on the recommendation of Richard Gough, who played against him in the nascent MLS.

Here he was a prolific scorer, and had also been part of two United States World Cup squads. Hard working and skilful, Moore showed a deft touch in front of goal in his early Everton appearances – including a run of five goals in five games over winter 2000.  Although he appeared for the United States in a variety of roles, including defensive midfield, he appeared predominantly as a striker for Everton.

Despite some promising shows in these first months as an Everton player, Moore lacked the power and physicality to make a lasting impression on the Premier League. The goals subsequently dried up, and so did his first team opportunities.

After appearing in the 2002 World Cup Finals, Moore was released from his Everton contract in December 2002 and returned to New England Revolution. He remains one of the most capped and most prolific American players in US national team history.