JACK IS SET TO 'EXCEL' FOR EVERTON

Pickford reveals his role in Grealish joining Blues - and why he thinks he'll thrive

- By CHRIS BEESLEY ECHO Reporter

JORDAN PICKFORD has explained his role in helping to bring pal Jack Grealish to Everton and has backed his England teammate to “excel” in a royal blue jersey.

Everton had been linked with a move for the first £100million English footballer all summer before announcing a season-long loan switch for the 29-year-old on August 12.

Lifelong Evertonian Alan Stubbs, who served as David Moyes’ captain during the Scot's first spell at Goodison Park revealed he had put on the charm offensive by trying to persuade Grealish to sign for the Blues while the pair were both on holiday in Marbella, but it turns out he was far from alone.

Pickford said: “I am good friends with Jack and when I heard the rumour, I sent a couple of messages to him. He asked a couple of questions, what the club is like, what it is like around the place, and I said if you come you will love it.

“I said the place is brilliant, the lads are great, the staff. People say it is ‘The People’s Club’ and it is a proper home club.

“Everyone knows what type of character Jack is. He comes in and lights the place up. You should see him in training, his levels. He is a top, top player and to get him at Everton, I think it is a massive thing for Everton Football Club.