Everton manager Sean Dyche has expressed his disappointment over the departure of Alex Iwobi, admitting the Nigerian midfielder was not someone he wanted to lose, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Iwobi, 28, joined Fulham last summer after spending four years at Goodison Park, where he evolved into a fan favourite and was named Players' Player of the Season in his final campaign.
"It was a very good deal for the club," Dyche said.
“He was an excellent servant, certainly in my time here. I enjoyed having him around the place. He was a joy to work with, a very good player in my opinion. Not one I wanted to lose, but needs must be met at that time. It was a good fee for a good player."
Iwobi returns to Goodison Park on Saturday with Fulham, the club he joined from Everton for a reported £22m.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun