Tyrique George has joined Everton on loan from Chelsea and says there were two reasons chose to move to the blue half of Merseyside for the rest of the season.
The England Under-21 international has joined the Toffees on a temporary deal and will be looking for the game time he found it difficult to come by at Stamford Bridge.
The 19-year-old made his professional debut for Chelsea in August 2024 and has made 37 appearances for them in total, scoring six goals.
He was a regular in their run to the UEFA Conference League title last year and has got on the pitch this season, but has made just four Premier League appearances.
There has been interest from other Premier League clubs, with Fulham coming close to agreeing a permanent move in the summer transfer window, but Everton snapped up the winger on deadline day this week.
George could have chosen other paths, but says the fans and the manager were key factors in choosing to stick wit the Toffees.
‘I’m really excited to be here and to enjoy this massive club. I just can’t wait to get started,’ said the new arrival.
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‘The fans here are exceptional. I know Evertonians are really passionate. They like hard work – and that’s what I’m going to show. I want to be exciting and I want to impress them.
‘The gaffer, David Moyes, was another reason [I wanted to join]. He’s an amazing manager who has coached so many players, like Wayne Rooney, and players like that. I’ve had a brief conversation with him and he’s an amazing person as well.
‘I just want to enjoy it, learn under him and improve.’
He added: ‘I feel ready, ready to make an impact. It feels like an exciting time for the club.
‘I’m going to attack this new challenge. I want to hit the ground running as quickly as possible and hopefully I can do that.
‘I’ve seen some pictures of [Hill Dickinson Stadium]. It’s massive and looks amazing, so I’m really looking forward to playing there.’
Moyes has had to move to bring in a wide forward after a serious injury suffered by another loan signing, Jack Grealish.
A stress fracture to the England international’s foot looks set to keep him out for the rest of the season, which means George will have a significant role to play in his absence.
‘Tyrique is a versatile forward who can play all across the front line,’ said the Everton boss. ‘I hope he will settle quickly into our squad, and the support from our fans will definitely help him feel at home. We are looking forward to working with him.’