Johnson sticks with Toffees

ANDREW JOHNSON has signed a new five-year contract that puts him on a par with Everton’s top earners.

The deal — signed after the club tore up the five-year agreement he signed less than 18 months ago when he moved to Goodison Park for £8.6million (€12.3m) from Crystal Palace — ends speculation the 26-year-old striker could be on his way out of the club in the next transfer window.

In the summer, West Ham were linked with the player and there has already been speculation that the Upton Park club will make another move for Johnson in January.

But Johnson’s improved contract means his wages are now at the same level as Joseph Yobo, Mikel Arteta and Tim Cahill, who have also signed new deals.

Johnson, who has now returned to full training following ankle surgery, is committed to Everton until the summer of 2012.

The news will be a lift for manager David Moyes, as he steps up preparations for the crucial UEFA Cup Group A game at Nurnberg tomorrow.

Since the beginning of the year, Everton have also tied key players Cahill, Arteta, Tim Howard, James Vaughan and Victor Anichebe on lengthy deals.

Added to that, Leighton Baines, Phil Jagielka and Ayegbeni Yakubu also signed five-year contracts when they joined Everton in the summer, and securing Johnson’s services is further proof Moyes is building a squad whose best years are in the future.

Tomorrow night’s tussle at Bundesliga strugglers Nurnberg is likely to come too soon for Johnson’s return but he could be back in the squad for Sunday’s trip to Chelsea.