Barry Becomes A Blue

By • Jul 9th, 2014 • Category: News |

Everton have completed the signing of former England and Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry.

Manchester City had originally demanded the Blues pay a ‘transfer fee’ should Barry join permanently, however it is believed the two clubs have reached a compromise.

The 33-year-old former loan player has signed a three year contract with the blues, which has raised eyebrows from those who believe it is a somewhat unusual length of deal offered to a player of Barry’s age.

However, it is clear Everton boss Roberto Martinez and Chairman Bill Kenwright are confident enough in Barry’s ability to continue playing to an incredible standard for the next three seasons, and believe Barry fully justified his £55,000pw contract after an outstanding campaign on loan last season.

The former Aston Villa man has never really had pace to lose and having made over 500 Premier League appearances, boasts vital experience that the likes of Ross Barkley, Ryan Ledson and James McCarthy will only benefit from.

It is believed Everton fended off competition from both Arsenal and West Ham. Arsenal was only prepared to offer a one year deal – as they almost always offer to players over 30.

West Ham were able to offer a greater contract length than Arsenal and stronger personal terms, but with Barry already settled at Everton and excited about the prospect of playing in Europe, he had his heart set on one destination.

Everton kick off their pre-season campaign soon with many players returning to full training on Thursday. The countdown is on to the start of the premier league season – Everton open away at newly promoted Leicester City. The odds at William Hill (see url: http://sports.williamhill.com/bet/en-gb/betting/y/5/Football.html) show Everton as 11/10 favourites for the fixture.

William Hill Football Betting

The two teams will actually meet in Thailand for a pre-season friendly. It will be interesting to see how Leicester do as at first glance traveling away to a newly promoted side is a difficult fixture.



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