Everton have snapped up former Reading academy goalkeeper Patrick Nash.

The 17-year-old – who is named after Northern Irish goalkeeping legend Pat Jennings – will link up with Paul Tait's Under-18s team for the remainder of the 2021/22 season.

Aldershot-born Nash, who formerly spent time at Reading FC's academy, paid tribute to the welcoming atmosphere at Everton and revealed his excitement about pulling on a Toffees jersey for the first time.

“It feels really good to get the deal across the line," Nash told evertonfc.com.

“I'm really buzzing to get going now and get on the pitch. By far, Everton is the friendliest club I've ever been to.

“Everyone around the place, from the guys at the gate to those on the pitch, have been brilliant.

“It's a great group of lads in the Under-18s and, especially when I'm moving away from home, it's really important for me to settle in. The lads are really friendly, which help that."

Nash explained how Everton's Head of Academy Goalkeeping, David Lucas, was instrumental in bringing him to the Club.

The gifted young stopper is now aiming to repay Lucas' faith.

“Dave knew about me when he was at Fleetwood Town," said Nash.

“He wanted to get me there but unfortunately it didn't happen for whatever reason.

“When Dave moved to Everton, he got back in touch and said he would like to get me back involved.

“I came up to Everton for a week in August [on trial] and was taken aback by the friendliness of the Club.

“I'm really pleased to be here now."