Source: Daily_Mail
Everton keeper Tim Howard says club must keep star players
Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard believes it is vital the club retain the services of Marouane Fellaini and other key players within the Toffees squad.Manager David Moyes has revealed that talks over a new deal with midfielder Fellaini have begun.The 23-year-old Belgium international, who is out for the rest of season with an ankle injury, is one of Toffees' most prized assets and has been linked with a host of leading European clubs. Cause for concern: Howard urging club to keep Moyes' rising starsWith Everton having spent little money in the last three transfer windows, there has been speculation over whether the club might be tempted to sell - but Howard hopes that is not the case.The United States international said: 'He is tremendous for us. He really helps us build and he calms things down the middle of the park.'We have missed him dearly, along with other players.'He had a terrible injury last year and has had another this year.'We hope we can tie him up for another few years, get him healthy over the summer and he'll be raring to go.'Recent injuries have highlighted the lack of depth in Everton's squad. Blue day: Howard believes club will only progress if they keep a hold of Rodwell (left) and FellainiMoyes named a seven-man bench for last Saturday's Barclays Premier League draw with Aston Villa without a single minute's experience in the competition between them.Howard recognises new players are needed in the summer but also feels it is crucial the existing big names remain at Goodison Park to maintain spirit.The 32-year-old said: 'We need a few fresh faces, I think everyone would agree with that. And it is vital we stay together.'I think we have got a tremendously talented core of players with a lot of quality and we don't seem to be a club who can just let players go willy-nilly and try to replace them.'There is heartbeat and a passion about the club the players understand.'The Toffees have generally endured a disappointing campaign but a five-match unbeaten run has seen them push up to seventh in the table. Main man: Moyes has his squad at Goodison Park on a shoestring budgetA challenge for Europe remains unlikely but, after spending most of the season in the bottom half, Howard feels overhauling sixth-placed rivals Liverpool is a realistic target.He said: 'The fact we are in seventh place and nipping on the heels of Liverpool is a great thing.'It was only four weeks ago we were drifting down near the bottom somewhere.'It was important for us to stay positive and know that one or two results could push us up the table.'I think realistically we can finish higher. We have the ability to do that and we have our sights set on Liverpool."Howard joined Everton on loan from Manchester United in 2006 and signed permanently the following year.After agreeing a contract extension in 2009, he still has three more years remaining at Goodison but he is keen to play on beyond that.He said: 'I would like to finish my career here.'Unfortunately there is always a business side to football - everyone understands that - but as far as I am concerned, if Everton will have me, I am staying put.' Everton chief Kenwright insists he's no dummy as club reveal finance figuresMoyes facing Everton exit in summer as financial hardship bites at GoodisonAll the latest Everton news, features and opinion Explore more:People: David Moyes Places: Liverpool, Belgium, Europe