Landon Donovan begs LA Galaxy to let him stay at Everton a little longer

09 March 2010 12:04
Landon Donovan has made a personal plea for LA Galaxy to extend his stay at Goodison Park after admitting he was in awe of the work ethic among England's leading players.[LNB]Plans are up in the air: Donovan is given a lift by Rodwell after his goal against Hull but the American could soon be on his way[LNB]Everton's on-loan midfielder may have questioned David Beckham's commitment to being Galaxy captain last summer, when he fumed: 'Maybe he's not a leader or captain. Fair enough. But as a minimum, you should bust your ass every day. That hasn't happened.'[LNB]He has no issues with any of Beckham's home-based England team-mates, though, after viewing them at close quarters over the past two months and says their dedication has been an eye-opener.[LNB]As the USA star waited for an answer on his immediate future fromGalaxy boss Bruce Arena, the 28-year-old revealed his impressions ofEnglish football and explained why he will be an even bigger threat toFabio Capello's side at this summer's World Cup.[LNB]'What have Ilearned? Wow! I've learned a lot,' he said. 'The biggest thing from aprofessional standpoint is to keep yourself going every day. That is soimportant. The amount these guys put in is so draining, physically,mentally and emotionally. I have so much respect for the Frank Lampardsand Steven Gerrards who do it day in, day out. It's the same here atEverton, when you see players like Leighton Baines turning out everyweek and maintaining standards.[LNB]'It's been really great and Ican't imagine many players in the world, let alone Americans, can saythey have played against and beaten Chelsea and Manchester United inthe space of 10 days. That has to be the highlight. It's certainlyimproved me as a player. I've learned a lot technically and tactically.'[LNB]This improvement was evident in Everton's 5-1 win over Hull on Sunday when he scored one and set up another.[LNB]'Myexperience puts me in a stronger position for the World Cup,' he added.'The biggest plus is I now have the confidence to play against anybodyand not fear anyone at all.'[LNB]Arena recently insisted he wantedDonovan in the States after next weekend's game at Birmingham, but apotential MLS players' strike could clear the way to a further month atGoodison.[LNB] Waving goodbye? Donovan says a possible farewell to the Goodison fans[LNB]Everton will ask Galaxy for a four-week extension to the player's 10-week loan, but deep down they fear their request will be rejected.[LNB]'If the Hull game ends up being my last home appearance, then going on and scoring was the cherry on top,' said Donovan.[LNB]'But I haven't given up hope of staying here at Everton a little longer. I think we will know more during this week. Both clubs know how I feel, which is that I would like to stay.[LNB]'I'd have to go back April 15 at the latest, and if that can be worked out, great. If not, then I'm still very grateful for the chance I've had.'[LNB] Everton 5 Hull 1: It's happy daze for Moyes as Arteta sparks a goal rushEverton in talks with LA to keep loan star Donovan for the rest of seasonEverton boss Moyes backs Jagielka for England place in South AfricaEVERTON FC

Source: Daily_Mail