Toffees to stick with Howard long-term

EVERTON have clinched the signing of goalkeeper Tim Howard on a five-year contract from Manchester United for a fee believed to be in the region of £3 million (€4.4 million).

Howard joined the Merseysiders on loan from the beginning of the season, with his long-term future at Old Trafford very much in doubt.

But his form at Goodison Park even prompted United boss Alex Ferguson to discuss bringing the USA international back to the club when his loan ended.