Everton Director of Football, Kevin Thelwell, has hailed the "pedigree and quality" of Ashley Young after the experienced winger-turned-full-back became the Club's first summer signing.

The 38-year-old, who has enjoyed a trophy-laden career and racked up 422 Premier League appearances to date, enjoyed a successful 2022/23 campaign with Aston Villa.

Young's 75.5-per-cent tackle success ranked him among the highest three per cent for his position across Europe’s top five leagues, while he also featured in the top 11 per cent for shots blocked and the highest 14 per cent for clearances.

After completing the deal, both manager Sean Dyche, who was captain at Watford when Young broke through as a teenager, and Thelwell underlined the influence the new acquisition will play on and off the pitch.

Thelwell said: “We are delighted to sign a player of Ashley’s pedigree and quality.

“His list of honours and achievements show we have brought in a proven winner and leader. He is highly thought of in football as a person and, as a player, his performances over many years, which includes an excellent 2022/23 with Aston Villa last season, underline why he will strengthen our squad."