Stubbs decided to reject Celtic's offer of a new deal and return to the club he supported as a boy on a four-year contract.

The 29-year-old central defender was, in fact, released by Everton in his teens but went on to make his name at Bolton.

"I will be playing for the club of my dreams," he said. "But at the end of the day the biggest factor of all is what was right for my wife Mandy and our family.

"In the past I have consulted them over transfers but the final decision has always belonged to me. This time after what I've been through the past two years it is only fair they had a bigger say.

"The went through hell while I was in hospital and stayed by my side through it all. I have always dreamed of playing for Everton and this is my last chance to do so.

"I've realised a dream. When I went to Celtic everything to do with the move was massive and the more I played for them the more I grew closer to the club, but it is not the same as playing for your boyhood team. It's going to special when I do play.

"But when I found Everton wanted me, it was basically when can I come? It's something I am really looking forward to.

"I have obviously been down watching them play, but playing with the team is obviously going to be fantastic.

"Hopefully I'll add something to the Everton team that they weren't getting last year and hoping it can be a good formula all the way round."

Everton boss Smith said: "He's an experienced player now and I'm sure he'll come in and handle the situation well.

"We would hope that over the pre-season he can get to know the players and I'm sure he'll make a terrific contribution.

"He's a great passer of the ball and if you have a defender that can start off moves for you like he can then it's a great benefit to the team."