Everton: Shani Tarashaj explains Wayne Rooney factor in move to Goodison Park

Everton striker Shani Tarashaj says the development of Manchester United's Wayne Rooney at the Merseyside club played a factor in him deciding on a move to Goodison Park. Switzerland Under-21 international Tarashaj signed a four-and-a-half year deal with Roberto Martinez's side on 7 January before he was loaned back to Grasshoppers Zurich for the remainder of the season in order to finish his national service.

Martinez has already predicted a bright future for the 21-year-old, who cost the club a reported fee of £3m. Tarashaj says a move to Everton has always been a "dream" of his and believes the opportunity to develop at the club that turned Rooney into England's brightest young star is a "win-win" for him.

"It is a big club, a huge opportunity for me," Tarashaj told Swiss newspaper Blick, as reported by the Daily Express. "I am a young player and it has always been a dream of mine to play for Everton, to play in the Premier League.

"He [Wayne Rooney] started out his career there, it's a win-win situation for me. It is very important that I can help the team, and also continue my development."

Martinez also spoke enthusiastically about Tarashaj's passion for Everton. "Shani is an enormous young talent in Swiss football who, without a doubt, will have a great future.

"We are delighted to have found a young player who believes that our club is the perfect step for him to enhance his quality and to grow his career.

"He fits in really well to our style and the way we want to play the game. He is a family boy, hungry and he is desperate to fight for his place in our talented young squad."