Summer is here, the rain and thunderstorms are back, fixture lists are out and transfer gossip is in full swing.
Let’s nail down the action at Everton in this year’s transfer window so far.
- David Moyes’ successful approach for 17-year-old Shkodran Mustafi from Hamburg has been seen as something of a coup, following impressive displays for Germany’s Under-17s. Although starting out as a striker, Mustafi has found his niche at centre-half. He has been signed for a three-year deal, and immediately joined the first-team for training in Scotland.
- Anton Peterlin, 22, from the United States’ Ventura County Fusion, was talked up as a hot talent by his coach Graham Smith. The midfielder impressed over a 10-day trial at Finch Farm, and his signing was confirmed by the club on 10th July. David Moyes has said that he is impressed by the player’s attitude and ability.
- Everton have agreed a deal to sign Manchester City striker Jo on a season-long loan, following a 5-month loan last season, where he netted 5 goals in 12 games. The striker was keen to return, saying “I’m really happy to be here. It’s all happened quite quickly but I’m pleased. I really enjoyed my time here last season and I hope I can build on that.”
- 16-year-old Luke Garbutt has been signed to the academy, and club officials have confirmed that the Club will go to tribunal to agree a compensation package with Leeds United. Garbutt will not feature for the Blues until the issue is resolved.
EVERTON ON TELLY – LATEST CHANGES TO FIXTURE TIMES
Everton’s 2009-10 Barclays Premier League campaign will now kick-off at 5.30pm, 15th August.
The Toffees will hope for the perfect start against Arsenal with a home win, and this opening game will be screened live by ESPN.
The North American giants are new to Premier League broadcasting in the UK after they purchased the live rights from the fall-out from the Setanta collapse.
Other fixture changes have also been announced.
Opponent Date & Time Broadcaster
Arsenal (H) 15 August, 5.30pm ESPN
Wigan (H) 30 August, 3pm (This game has yet to be confirmed)
Fulham (A) 13 September, 4.15pm Sky Sports
Portsmouth (A) 26 September, 12.45pm Sky Sports
Manchester United (A) 21 November, 5.30pm ESPN
Liverpool (H) 29 November, 1.30pm Sky Sports
Everton’s away clash with Manchester City will also be screened live, although a date has yet to be arranged.
The Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on 29 November will be shown live, as well as the trip to champions Manchester United the week-end before.
EVERTON’S PRE-SEASON FIXTURE LIST
Opponent Date & Time
Bury (A) 10 July, 7.45pm
Rochdale (A) 18 July, 3.00pm
River Plate (A) 26 July, 2.30pm
MLS All Stars (A) 30 July, 2.30pm
Coventry (A) 2 August, 12.30pm
Blackpool (A) 4 August, 7.30pm
Malaga (H) 7 August, 8.00pm