Everton FC monitoring free agent Craig Gordon as David Moyes looks to add competition to his squad

27 November 2012 08:00
David Moyes admits Everton need to add competition to their squad – as the Blues are linked with a surprise move for goalkeeper Craig Gordon.

Moyes, speaking after his side’s 1-1 draw with Norwich City on Saturday, said that adding depth will be key when the transfer window re-opens in January if Everton are to sustain their challenge for a European qualification spot this season. Gordon, 29, commanded a fee of £9m – a British record for a goalkeeper – when joining Sunderland from Hearts in 2007, but was released by the Black Cats in the summer after struggling with a succession of injuries, and has since failed to find a new club. Moyes has already displayed a willingness to gamble on free agents this season.

Thomas Hitzlsperger was signed on a short-term contract after proving his fitness during a trial spell, while Steven Naismith arrived in the summer having shaken off a serious knee injury sustained at former club Rangers. Gordon is currently recuperating from a knee problem, and has previously stated he is concentrating on returning to full fitness before deciding his next move. It is understood, however, that Everton are one of a number of clubs monitoring the Scotland international’s progress.

“We need competition in all areas and that extends to Tim Howard in goal, absolutely,” said Moyes.

“Everybody has got to make sure they are at the top of their game. We have got to make sure we are not continually giving away things, making mistakes that are leading to goals which cost us.

“We need competition and there hasn’t been enough of that in the last few weeks when we’ve had a few injuries. It is something we have to think about in January.” Moyes, though happy with a promising start to the campaign, has been left frustrated by his side’s recent wobbles, which has seen them draw five of their last seven Premier League fixtures, winning just three of the last 11. Injuries to the likes of skipper Phil Neville, Kevin Mirallas, Victor Anichebe, Tony Hibbert and Darron Gibson, plus Marouane Fellaini’s suspension, have hardly helped matters. Moyes said:

“I think realistically we have got a team who can possibly challenge for the top four still but we would need most of our players to be fit to be able to do that.

“Every club needs its squad, not just us. We’ve had a few missing in recent games and there hasn’t been a lot to change things from the bench when we’ve needed to.”

Source: liverpool_echo