James Garner says he is eager to make up for lost time after swapping Manchester United for Everton.
The young midfielder progressed through United's academy but never managed to make the breakthrough at first team level. He made just seven senior appearances but the last of those came way back in December 2019.
After a fruitful loan stint at Nottingham Forest last season, whom he helped win promotion back to the top flight, many United fans were keen to see him catapulted into the first team engine room. But incoming boss Erik ten Hag had other ideas and after being made available for sale, the Toffees struck a deal on transfer deadline day for a fee that could rise to £15million.
Read more : Ten Hag explains what Sancho has done to improve
Speaking to Everton's in-house media, Garner said he is relishing the prospect of regular Premier League football.
"I’m made up to sign for Everton," said the 21-year-old. "It’s a huge step in my career and I want to help the team get better while progressing as a player. I think Everton is the perfect place to do that. The manager has got a real plan for the club and for me. Working with him on a daily basis is major for me. Him and his staff can take me and the team to the next level. That’s what I’m hoping for.
"I know how passionate Evertonians are. I'm passionate myself and the sort of player who feeds off the crowd. I know what the fans are like so I think I'll be a good fit. I feel like I can bring real energy to the team - it is something that Everton definitely demands and I can add that in abundance. I have got quality as well so hopefully I can be a big part of us having a good season.
"My experience at Nottingham Forest last season, and how I improved as a player, has given me confidence I can perform at the highest level. I want to take that into the Premier League now and do it with Everton."
Read more:
