United Arab Emirates club Sharjah FC have announced the signing of Everton winger Bernard on a two-year contract.

The Brazilian made just five starts in his 18 appearances last season and was close to leaving Goodison Park in the January window but a move to Al Nasr fell through.

“We welcome the joining of the Brazilian international “Bernard” (28 years old) to the Castle of Kings, coming from the English club Everton, with a contract that extends for two seasons,” said a post with pictures of the winger on Sharjah’s Twitter account.

Bernard joined the Toffees on a free contract from Shakhtar Donetsk in August 2018, scoring eight goals in 84 goals appearances.

In an Instagram post the winger wrote: “First of all I would like to thank the fans, and all the players who were with me and always supported me at all times, since I arrived I was always well received and treated as if I was really a member of the family.

“Unfortunately you who support me and not those who appear here to spread the words of hate don’t know half of what happens behind the scenes, I wanted to be more clear but unfortunately today I can’t, the message I leave today is of gratitude and you will always be special. Everton is giant.”