Vaughan signs for EPL newbies

Promoted Norwich City have signed James Vaughan from Everton for an undisclosed fee as they prepare for life in the English Premier League.

When he made his debut for Everton at age 16, Vaughan was the youngest player in the club’s history, and remains the youngest ever Premier League goal scorer.

He went on to make 47 appearances for the Toffees, scoring seven goals, but failed to establish himself as a regular and had been loaned out to Derby County, Leicester City and most recently Crystal Palace.

He joins Norwich, who won automatic promotion to the top flight after finishing second in the Championship last season, on a three-year deal.

“It was hard to leave Everton,” Vaughan said.

“I’ve been there since I was six but now it’s time to move on and try and get some games elsewhere.”

“I’m really happy to get it done so early in the summer. I’m already looking forward to getting back into training.”

“I was very impressed with Norwich last season. Obviously, getting promoted two seasons in a row isn’t easy and a lot of credit has to go to the team for doing that.”

“The club is going in the right direction and hopefully I can join and keep that going in the Premier League.”

Vaughan scored nine goals in 30 appearances on loan at Palace last season, helping the club escape relegation to League One.

He will compete with first-choice Norwich strikers Simeon Jackson and captain Grant Holt for a starting berth.

“I think he’ll do great,” Norwich manager Paul Lambert said. “He was a handful for Palace and more than helped them stay up.”

“He’s a terrific lad. He’s been in the Premier League before and scored goals at that level.”

“Sometimes, when kids burst on the scene pretty early, it can take a bit of time before that newness goes away.”

“He just needs a fresh start I think and Norwich can provide that for him.”

“He’s someone who’s been on my mind to try and get in and he’ll make the competition for places harder for everybody else.”