August 10, 2016 was a big day for Everton. Many important events transpired for the club, from the senior team signing new players, to the U23’s winning a championship.
Everton Sign Ashley Williams
Ever since Ronald Koeman came to Everton, they have been heavily linked to Ashley Williams. Williams is strong at passing, blocking, and intercepting the ball. His on ball skills are good enough that Everton don’t have to worry about losing John Stones, at least in the short-term. Williams is a perfect example of someone Koeman wants in his squad and his skill set is very similar to new signing Idrissa Gueye.
The former Swansea defender joined Swansea from Stockport for a then record fee of £400,000. He helped Swansea gain promotion from League One, and then from the Championship. Since they joined the Premier League, he has been a mainstay in the squad. This past summer he captained the Wales side to the semifinals in their first ever Euros.
The 31-year-old Williams signed a three year deal with Everton, keeping him at the club until 2019. The fee for Williams is rumored about £9 million. He figures to slot right in to the starting when fit, as Everton just sold John Stones. Williams will wear number 5, which was previously vacated by Stones.
William’s wanted to join Everton, and Swansea were happy to let him go. He said:
“I’ve had eight great years at Swansea and, for me, the new challenge was something I felt I needed, so I’m delighted to have joined Everton.
Clearly, this move was beneficial for all sides, as Everton got the center back they needed, and Swansea received funds to continue their squad overhaul.
Everton U-23 Pre-Season Treble
The U-23s completed their treble when they beat Oldham Athletic in the Lancashire Senior Cup final. They won in a penalty shootout 5-3. Going into the PK shootout it was tied 2-2. Ryan Ledson converted from the penalty spot after Courtney Duffus was fouled. Luke Garbutt had an own goal, plus Oldham scored one more to put them up 2-1. Tom Davies tied the game all up with six minutes left in regular time.
Everton’s reverse side previously lifted the SuperCupNI and the Liverpool Senior Cup this summer. The U-23’s are coached by former player David Unsworth, who has been spectacular with developing their young talent.
EFL Cup
Also announced was Everton’s EFL Cup opponent. The EFL Cup was previously called the Capital One Cup. Last year, Everton lost to Manchester City in the semifinals of the competition.
This year Everton will face Yeovil. It is the first time these two clubs have ever played competitively.
Mathew Pennington out Several Months
Mathew Pennington, the promising young center and right back, picked up a hamstring injury against Real Betis in the Dresden Cup. Koeman announced today that he will be out for several months after undergoing hamstring surgery. Pennington will be sorely missed. His versatility and poise could have served Everton well as the back up right back and center back. Currently, Everton do not have a back up center back for the Tottenham game. Ramiro Funes Mori will be starting and if Phil Jagielka can’t play, it will most likely fall to Mason Holgate to pick up the slack.
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