Kevin Mirallas has revealed how the enthusiasm of David Moyes and the encouragement of Marouane Fellaini persuaded him to choose Everton over Arsenal.
Mirallas, 24, joined Everton from Olympiakos for £5.3 million on Sunday, signing a four-year deal. He had been close to signing for Arsenal, though, until Everton manager Moyes convinced him he would get more first-team football at Goodison Park.
Mirallas also took advice from Fellaini, his Belgium international team-mate, who urged him to move to Merseyside.
The striker was signed too late to play against Manchester United on Monday night, but was introduced to the fans on the pitch before kick-off, then watched from the stands as Fellaini capped an outstanding performance by heading the game's only goal.
Mirallas is instead expected to make his debut when Everton visit Aston Villa on Saturday.
He told reporters: "Discussions (with Arsenal) were at quite an advanced stage, but it was totally down to me to make the decision. From the word go, I was impressed with how much the manager wanted me here.
"What's important to me is to get plenty of time on the field. I think I will get the opportunity to play more games and more minutes with Everton. Obviously Marouane was a factor too. He told me Everton was a big club with a family spirit around the place.
"Not only did he help me coming here, but he'll help me settle in. It's nice to have a fellow countryman around the place."