Martyn targets new deal

Everton goalkeeper Nigel Martyn is set to be offered a new deal if given the all-clear after a scan on his injured ankle.

The 39-year-old former England international has been sidelined since January with a stress fracture.

His contract is due to expire at the end of the month but manager David Moyes has revealed he will be offered fresh terms if given the green light to continue playing.

Martyn joined Everton from Leeds in September 2003 and has made 100 appearances for the club.

Martyn told the club's official website, www.evertonfc.com: "It was a decision based on being able to live a normal sort of life afterwards - that was the primary concern because it is a nasty bone to have a problem in.''

Martyn began his career with Bristol Rovers before becoming the country’s first £1m (€1.5m) goalkeeper when he joined Crystal Palace in 1989.

He moved on to Leeds for £2.25m (€3.3m) in 1996 and helped the Elland Road club reach the Champions League semi-finals in 2001. He eventually left for Everton after losing his first-team place to current England number one Paul Robinson.

Martyn, who also won 23 England caps, added: “I have loved every minute of my time at Everton. I have a lot to be thankful to Everton for because I was languishing at Leeds at the time.

“I was out of favour at Elland Road because I would not go on a tour and so I will always be thankful to the manager (David Moyes) for putting his faith in me and giving me another chance.

“To be able to play two and a half seasons was a big thing for me because it meant I could finish my career properly.”