John Ruddy has played under Well manager Jim Gannon at Stockport

Motherwell have signed Everton goalkeeper John Ruddy on a six-month loan deal with the option of a permanent move.

The 22-year-old keeper will be eligible to play in the Steelmen's third qualifying round Europa League encounter against Steaua Bucharest.

Ruddy will vie with Michael Fraser and Sebastian Kosiorowski for the number one jersey at Fir Park.

Well boss Jim Gannon signed the 6ft 4in keeper twice at Stockport.

Ruddy started his career with Cambridge United in 2004 and made 43 appearances before sealing a £250,000 move to Everton the following year.

He has also enjoyed loan spells at Rushden & Diamonds, Chester, Wrexham, Bristol City and Crewe.

Well have been active in the transfer market in the close season with the arrivals of Fraser, midfielders Steve Jennings and Giles Coke, and forward Chris Humphrey.

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