Ashley Young has signed a new one-year contract at Everton.
Young’s previous deal was due to expire at the end of this month and The Athletic previously reported that the Englishman and Everton were in talks over extending his stay at Goodison Park.
Young signed a one-year deal with Everton last summer after leaving Aston Villa as a free agent. The versatile wide player turns 39 next month and has been playing professionally since 2003 — Everton manager Sean Dyche was Watford captain when Young broke through at the Hertfordshire club.
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“It was a no-brainer for me to sign again,” Young said. “I spoke to the manager before the end of the season. He asked me what I wanted to do, if I wanted to stay, and straight away I said yes because I loved my time here. Kevin (Thelwell) was the same.
“The size of the club, the staff, the players and, of course, the fans, who have been excellent… I loved my time here last season.
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“We had ups and downs but I can see how big the club is and where the club wants to get to. I want to be a part of that.”
Young made 34 appearances for Everton last season, starting 27 Premier League games as they secured survival with a 15th-place finish.
He joins captain Seamus Coleman in signing a one-year deal with Everton, while the Merseyside club have already moved to bring in Tim Iroegbunam from Aston Villa and re-sign Jack Harrison on loan from Leeds United for another season.
“We’re pleased to have secured Ashley’s future for next season,” Dyche added. “His qualities — both on and off the pitch — meant he was an important figure for us.
“He’s someone I’ve had the pleasure of knowing for many years and his depth of experience, leadership and versatility will undoubtedly help us again heading into next season.”
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(Marc Atkins/Getty Images)