Ashley Young to Everton could be a smart piece of business as Moyes comments arise
Ashley Young is set to join Everton on a free transfer after leaving Aston Villa when his contract expired, with the former Watford player turning down a move to Luton Town [TalkSport, 10 July].
Bringing Young to the club could be a very smart bit of business from Sean Dyche, as he adds the experience and know-how of the former Manchester United player, who has made over 700 club career appearances and played 39 games for England.
The player will bring great versatility to the Everton squad, as he is able to play on either wing or as a full-back on either side and has proved he still has a lot to offer in the Premier League after starting 23 games for Aston Villa last season.
Since this deal has become public knowledge, quotes have emerged from former Everton boss David Moyes during his time at Manchester United, where he warned Young about his repetitive diving.
“I have spoken to Ashley and I have said, make sure you do everything right. And he did,” said Moyes in the wake of Manchester United’s 2-0 victory over Stoke in 2013, “He got kicked a few times and he went down, but he got back up and got on with it.”
The revival of these quotes is a reminder of just how long Young has been in and around Premier League football, and the various tricks, challenges and situations he has seen throughout his career.
Another Everton manager with previous links to Young is current boss Dyche, as the two played together for Watford in the Championship – something which may have swayed Young’s decision to choose Everton over Luton.
Back to the football side of things though, in the current day, Young can be a valuable asset to Dyche’s side, providing his experience to the younger players at the club, while his versatility and drive to keep playing at the top level will offer the Toffees plenty of help as they look to survive relegation once more.
The Blues finally look set to pull off some very smart transfer business.
In other Everton news, the club have reportedly agreed an £18m+ deal for a Leeds United star.