Everton new signing Andy Johnson has revealed the passion of the fans was the biggest factor in his decision to choose the Blues.

David Moyes beat off competition from Wigan and Bolton to win the battle for the signature of the England international, who has become the club's record signing following his £8.6m switch from Crystal Palace.

Johnson told evertonfc.com: "I can't wait to get out there for the club. It is a massive club and I am delighted to be joining.

"Running out in front of 40,000 passionate fans every week will be great. I have obviously played here before for Crystal Palace and it is very hostile, the fans are very passionate. It is the kind of crowd you want on your side and it will be a dream come true to play in front of fans like that."

Everton are set to follow the signing of Johnson with the acquisition of Joleon Lescott from Wolves. The 23-year-old central defender underwent a medical with the Blues on Thursday after Wolves agreed an undisclosed fee for the former England Under-21 international.

For more on these stories, visit evertonfc.com.

It's about time we attracted a top player because its been farcical for years now.

http://www2.halton.gov.uk/images/pf/Stadium/masthead.gif

http://www2.halton.gov.uk/images/main/stadium_mainmodule

Everton return to Widnes

With football on everyone’s minds at the moment with the World Cup in full swing, further good news for Halton comes with the news that Everton Football Club are to play their reserve games at the Halton Stadium from next season.

It’s a welcome return to Widnes for the Toffees, who previously played their reserve matches at the Halton Stadium for four years until 2003.

Greeting the decision Cllr Phil Harris, Executive Board member for Environment, Leisure & Sport, said: “We are delighted to welcome Everton back to Widnes. This is good news for the Stadium and also for the people of Halton.

“We are hoping that we can strike at least a two-year deal that will lead to a lasting partnership between Halton Stadium and Everton Football Club.”

So there not choosing kirkby after all?

Yeah, they still want Kirkby for the 'new' Goodison, but they used to play their reserve games at Widnes a couple of years ago then stopped. They've just renewed the licence to use the Halton Stadium for reserve games for 2006/07 season!