Toffees midfielder signs for Wigan

Everton have parted company with young midfielder Joe Williams, who has penned a three-year deal with Wigan Athletic.

The 22-year-old midfielder came through the ranks at Goodison Park but never made a senior appearance, gaining Championship experience in loan spells at Barnsley and Bolton in the past two seasons.

Williams’ chances of playing first-team football with the Toffees looked slim again this season, and rather than organise another loan, it has been decided a permanent deal is the best way forward.

‘I had a few clubs interested but I wanted to stay in England and come to a club that I know can help me to develop as a footballer, improve me and make me better all round,’ he told Wigan’s official website.

‘I spoke to the gaffer and the ambition he has for the club and the direction he wants to take the team is really exciting. ‘My loan spells have been really good for me but they’ve been tough. They’ve made me a lot stronger mentally and I like to think I know this league now and understand the men’s game a lot more. ‘I’ve played more than 60 games in the Championship now, so I’m looking to kick on.’