David Moyes has described Everton's move to Hill Dickinson Stadium as the start of a “new romance” but warned that the strength of the “marriage” depends on the success of the team. The £800m arena stages its first competitive game on Sunday when Brighton visit in the Premier League, with Moyes feeling it was “written in the stars” that he should be in charge for the historic moment.
“We've got a new stadium that we can fall in love with,” said the Everton manager. “A long marriage has a lot to do with how the team is and what team we put on the pitch over the years to come. We've built a brilliant stadium, now the job is to try and build a brilliant team.” Moyes, who saw two stadium projects fail during his first spell at the club (Kings Dock and Kirkby), added: “It could have easily been other great managers who've managed this club. But I feel that maybe it was written in the stars in some way that I would get the opportunity to do so.”
Everton are close to a deal for Southampton winger Tyler Dibling after a breakthrough in negotiations for the 19-year-old. Southampton had rejected Everton's third offer, worth up to £40m, and demanded £45m plus a 20% sell-on fee for the England under-21 international. But three weeks on, with Everton refusing to meet that valuation, Southampton instigated fresh talks and indicated they would accept a lower fee.
Talks are now advancing over Dibling's transfer, with Everton expected to pay just over £40m including add-ons. The teenager, who has two years remaining on his contract at St Mary's, has made it clear he wants to move to Hill Dickinson Stadium. Moyes has been desperate to strengthen his right flank all summer, and Dibling would become Everton's second most expensive signing if the deal is completed.
