New Everton signing Steven Naismith said the chance to work under manager David Moyes was one of the reasons he opted to move to Goodison Park.
The 25-year-old, who cancelled his contract with the soon-to-be-liquidated Rangers rather than move to the newco club, signed a four-year deal on Wednesday on a free transfer. He spoke to former Rangers team-mates David Weir, now a coach at Everton, and Nikica Jelavic, who made the same move in January, and needed little convincing it was the right place for him.
"My decision to move to Everton was, first of all, that under the manager's leadership over the last 10 years they have been one of the most successful clubs in terms of growing and the facilities are world class," he said.
"I think last season showed that, finishing seventh in the world's best league and above your nearest rivals and doing quite well in the cups. It is what every player strives for.
"I have heard a lot from various people who have been in contact with the club over the last few years and there are some great guys in the squad.
"I spoke to Nikica and David Weir especially. He has been a big part of my career and he told me I would love it and his words mean a lot to me."
Naismith is confident he can make the step up from the Scottish Premier League to the English version.
"It is a quality squad but I am definitely going to get opportunities and it is my goal to take them," he added.
"The players here will make me a better player. I have confidence in my own ability and am confident I can do it at the highest level and with the help of my team-mates hopefully we can start the season quickly."
Source: PA
