Joey Barton sends Lewis Gibson three-word message as Everton exit confirmed after contract snub
Joey Barton has sent Lewis Gibson a three-word message after the player joined Plymouth Argyle following his exit from Everton.
The newly-promoted Championship club confirmed the signature of the 22-year-old on Monday (3 July), their third signing of the summer transfer window.
Gibson has left the Toffees despite being offered a contract extension by the Merseyside club, as per the official Everton website (9 June).
“Over the moon to get this one done!” Gibson wrote on Instagram. “Can’t wait to see the Green army at Home Park. See you soon!”
Barton, who managed the player at both Fleetwood Town and Bristol Rovers, replied: “Good luck mate.”
Contract snub understandable
Everton clearly felt there was still a future for Gibson at Goodison Park with the contract decision, but he made his mind up and has decided to further his career elsewhere.
The young defender has been sent out on loan four times during his period with the Toffees, spending temporary spells at Fleetwood, Reading, Sheffield Wednesday and Bristol Rovers.
And that is perhaps his main reason for leaving Goodison despite the contract offer, with the youngster seemingly keen to kick on and enjoy regular minutes on the pitch elsewhere.
It’s certainly a good decision from the player at the age of 22, with the youngster having been in danger of being forgotten about at Everton for another campaign.
Gibson can now progress in the hugely competitive Championship, with plenty of excitement at Plymouth in these months after their promotion from League One.
The club enjoyed a superb campaign last time out, and they have been smart with their recruitment so far, particularly with the permanent deal for Toffees talent Gibson.