Gareth Barry admitted that it was a relief to get his loan deal to Everton signed, sealed and delivered.
The England international put pen to paper just before the 11pm deadline and is now keen to get started in a royal blue jersey.
"It's been a long day and the deal was done late but it was something that I always hoped would get over the line," he said. "I'm really looking forward to meeting up with the lads and helping Everton
to progress.
"I know all about Everton's history and it's a fantastic club. I've enjoyed playing games at Goodison Park, the atmosphere is always fantastic."
Barry joins an Everton team unbeaten under Roberto Martinez after a Premier League start of three successive draws and progression in the Capital One Cup.
"To be honest as soon as I heard about Everton's interest I have paid a lot of attention to the opening games," he said. "The bits I've seen, they've been unlucky not to win the games that they drew."
The 32-year old midfielder has been on the opposing end of a passionate and lively Goodison Park crowd when he's been in the colours of Aston Villa and Manchester City and so he's relishing
the prospect of being in the home team at his new base.
"The atmosphere is one of the best in the Premier League," he enthused. "The noise the fans make and the way they can upset opposing teams is fantastic for the players playing for Everton."
