Tim Howard Denies Rumours He's Leaving Everton for MLS

Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard has denied rumours suggesting he wishes to exit Goodison Park to return to the MLS, saying he hopes to be "done playing" when his current Toffees agreement expires.

Howard admitted speculation of his potential exit came as a surprise, reported by SiriusXM FC (h/t MLSsoccer.com):

"

There seems to be a lot being said about my return. Two weeks ago some things popped up on Twitter and I had to call my agent to find out what was going on because I didn’t know anything about it and neither did he.

I’ve still got several seasons left on my contract with Everton and at the end of that I want to be done playing. What happens between then? I’ve got no idea. It is a business but I’m happy where I am and don’t know anything about those rumors.

"

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The 35-year-old stopper permanently joined Everton in 2007 after a shaky spell with Manchester United. He has since established himself as one of the Premier League's best goalkeepers, a leader for Roberto Martinez's side.

Despite a slew of injury problems this season—limiting Howard to 25 appearances in all competitions, per WhoScored.com—Everton's No. 2, Joel Robles, has been unable to keep the American out of the starting lineup.

Martinez believes his veteran stopper continues to improve, reported by Mike Whalley of ESPN FC: "He's in the best moment of his career. When you're a goalkeeper of that age, you're starting to use your experience to influence the people around you."

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Howard does have the capacity to make mistakes but largely has a positive impact on Everton's chances. The Merseyside club is currently ranked a disappointing 12th in the Premier League after a slow start to the season even by its often turtle-like standards.

Having previously represented MetroStars—now referred to as New York Red Bulls in the MLS—American soccer has developed massively since Howard left for Europe in 2003.