Released Everton midfielder Tom Cleverley says he's proud of his time at Goodison Park.

The England international officially completes his permanent move to Watford today (1 July), having been on loan at Vicarage Road since January.

Speaking to evertonfc.com, Cleverley said: “When I look back on my career, to be able to say I've played for Everton as well as Aston Villa and Manchester United, historically three of the biggest clubs in English football, that's something I'm massively proud of. Before I joined, I knew what a historic place Goodison was and about the great atmosphere it creates.

“I made a lot of good friends at Everton, the Chairman was great and I really have a lot of respect for both managers I worked under.

“But, like at Manchester United, I felt like I knew the time was right to move on.

“I spoke to the manager [Ronald Koeman] at the start of January and basically said I'm not the most patient of footballers and I felt like it was good for everyone for me to move on.

“Watford and a couple of other clubs were interested but I was really keen on the Watford move and thankfully it's turned out well. I'm enjoying myself at Vicarage Road and hopefully I can kick on now.

“It seems a club that are on the rise, everyone from the owner down is very ambitious about the club improving and, for me personally, I'm competing on a Saturday again, I'm playing football again and, for a professional, that's what it's all about.

“But I just want to say thanks to everyone at Everton for giving me the chance to play for such a special team.

"Unfortunately it didn't quite work out and I don't think they saw the best of me but good luck to them in the future, I'll always look out for the team's results and hopefully they carry on improving."