Everton have signed experienced former Aston Villa star Ashley Young on a free transfer.
Young, who became a free agent upon the expiry of his Villa contract at the end of last season, turned down other offers from the Premier League, Championship and Europe in favour of Everton.
The 38-year-old former England international has signed a one-year deal at Goodison Park, becoming Everton's first signing of the summer.
Young is expected to join Sean Dyche's side for a pre-season camp in Switzerland this week, ahead of a friendly fixture against Stade Nyonnais on Friday.
Young, who was captained by Dyche when the new signing was a teenager at Watford, told evertontv: "I'm delighted to be an Everton player and to have joined this massive club. I can't wait for the season to start and walking out at Goodison Park is going to be an unbelievable feeling and to hear the passionate fans behind me.
"The manager was important in me signing. I know him and know what his passion and desire is like. His honesty, will to work hard and his hunger for the game is second to none.
"I know things haven't gone too well for Everton in the past couple of seasons but the manager's ambition, speaking to him and hearing what he wants to do to change the Club around, was a key factor in my decision.
"The other is the size of Everton. It's a massive club and the fanbase is one of the best. Having them behind me is a fantastic opportunity. I'm delighted to get the opportunity to be here and I just want to get started now."
Young played 29 Premier League matches, including 23 starts, as Unai Emery's Villa side finished seventh last season.
Dyche said: "Ashley is a top-class professional whose record of team and personal achievements during a successful career make him an excellent addition to our squad."
