Kevin Thelwell shows his worth as Jack Harrison explains Everton decision after Aston Villa links
Jack Harrison has opened up on the part Everton director of football Kevin Thelwell played in his move to Goodison Park amid interest from Aston Villa.
Former England Under-21 international Harrison joined Everton on loan from Leeds United in August following the latter’s relegation from the Premier League.
It was hailed as a massive coup for the Toffees, as they were able to bring in a player who has proved his quality in the top flight without having to pay a fee due to a clause in his contract.
However, the deal may never have happened had it not been for Thelwell and other staff members, as Premier League rivals Villa also lodged an interest in the midfielder.
Harrison confirmed in an interview with The Athletic on Friday (20 October) that Villa wanted to sign him, but he favoured a move to Everton after meeting with Thelwell and seeing the new stadium.
The 26-year-old added that the injury he was carrying over the summer – and subsequently into the first couple of months of his time at Everton – “complicated” matters, but Thelwell was quick to put him at ease.
Thelwell has come in for plenty of criticism during his time as director of football, including in the summer window when the transfer activity seemed to completely dry up until the arrivals of Harrison and Beto.
But he deserves praise for ensuring this deal got over the line, as it would have no doubt been tempting for Harrison to join a club – let’s face it – that is far more stable than Everton right now in Aston Villa.
Harrison marked his first start upon returning from injury with a goal and an assist in the 3-0 win over Bournemouth two weeks ago.
Even at the time the signing was announced, supporters knew just how big an impact the Leeds loanee would have.
Fingers crossed for more of the same from Harrison, and let’s hope Thelwell can get some more deals of a similar ilk lined up ready for the January window.
In other Everton news, a talkSPORT journalist has outlined how the Toffees can put an end to their “lamentable” record against Liverpool.