Everton transfers: Roberto Martinez hails Aiden McGeady signing

Roberto Martinez has spoken of his delight to sign Republic of Ireland international Aiden McGeady ahead of Nikica Jelavic’s departure.

The 27-year-old has signed a four-and-a-half year Toffees deal and the winger was presented to the Everton supporters prior to their 2-0 victory over Norwich City.

I am just delighted that it’s done and dusted now

Aiden McGeady

McGeady scored 13 goals in 93 games for Spartak Moscow, helping them to finish second in the table in 2011/12 after moving to Russia from Celtic in 2011.

The former Hoops midfielder will join fellow Republic of Ireland internationals James McCarthy, Seamus Coleman and Darron Gibson at the Merseyside outfit.

“It has been a long process. We are really pleased, it seemed as though we were going to get him in the summer,” Martinez told BBC Sport.

“But with the events of Nikica Jelavic moving to Hull, it was important he could join us quicker.”

Meanwhile McGeady described his switch to the Toffees as a “dream move”.

“I am absolutely delighted,” McGeady said.

“It has sort of been a long time coming. There was talk over the summer that something might happen, but I am just delighted that it’s done and dusted now.

“I was close to joining the manager a year ago when he was at Wigan. He has obviously come here and proved a lot of people wrong. He plays football the right way and got a few good results along the way. I just want to play for a big club like this and I am relishing the challenge.”