Ashley Young said Everton showed a unique spirit of unity in their 1-0 win over Newcastle United and that the club has laid the foundations for a bright future. Despite having already secured 13th place in the league, Everton still had a tough battle with the Magpies in the final game of the Premier League, who are chasing a Champions League spot.  

In the heated atmosphere of St. James Park, Charlie Alcaraz jumped high to head the ball in the 65th minute, successfully helping the team take the lead. Everton maintained the lead until the end of the game. The atmosphere at the home fans was tense and enthusiastic. They were very happy when they learned that the results in other stadiums were in favor of the team.  

Ashley Young said of this rare victory: "Newcastle United's games are never easy and this victory is precious. We know it will be a fierce battle and the fans will fully support them, which will also bring more pressure to us."  

"I think the team has changed dramatically since the coach took over. The players, the team cohesion and the unity between us are amazing. I haven't seen such a change in many places. We know the game is difficult to play, but we have to stick to it. We defended most of the time, but we also understand that opportunities will come and we will seize them."  

“We need to have the ball as much as possible to play at our best, but I’m proud to be part of this team and it feels great to end the season this way.”  

After the game, Everton is firmly outside the relegation zone with a 23-point advantage, closer to the top four of the league than the relegation zone. Since David Moyes returned to coach Everton and won his first game, only three teams are ahead of Everton's 31 points in the Premier League standings.  

Ashley Young said: "Such a transformation is impressive and is achieved through everyone's hard work and team spirit. This is the embodiment of hard work, unity and persistence. As I said, team cohesion is very important, and both players and staff are indispensable."  

"Every player agrees with the coach's goal, and everyone is willing to work hard for each other. Everyone has given a lot, and everyone wants to persevere to the end of the game. I can see this spirit every day in training. There may be disputes and conflicts during the game, but once we leave the field, everyone will communicate frankly because everyone's goal is to win the game."  

"I know the team has a good foundation in place now and I am very much looking forward to moving to the new stadium next season. I am sure it will be an exciting season."  

Ashley Young, who is often recognised for his professionalism and leadership, says he has no plans to retire. "Whenever I'm called on to play, I'll give it my all. I do that every day in training and every game when the coach tells me to be ready, I'll give it my all," he said.  

"Whether I'm on the bench or in the starting lineup, I'll do my best and show my best condition. I feel like I'm only 39, almost 40, and I can still run around on the court and play at a high level. So, I'm not thinking about stopping now."