Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard has been hailed as the Premier League's best goalkeeper by manager Roberto Martinez after signing a contract extension tying him to the club until 2018.
The 35-year-old American has been with the Toffees since 2006, initially moving on a loan basis from Manchester United before the clubs made the arrangement permanent. He was due to reach the end of his stay at Goodison Park at the end of the 2015-16 season but has agreed to a further two years.
Martinez, whose team are vying with Arsenal for a Champions League place, told Everton's website: "It is fantastic news. To have Tim Howard performing as he has been this season, I cannot see past him to choose the best goalkeeper in the league.
"For him, in such an important year with the World Cup around the corner, to commit his future for the long term is an incredible moment for the dressing room. I am extremely proud of Tim's achievements for the football club. On top of his goalkeeping it's his overall demeanor and personality in the dressing room. He is a strong leader."
Martinez added: "He has been vital to our overall achievements. It's not just about his performances. As a goalkeeper, you have a big say about what happens in your own goal and to keep the amount of clean sheets that we have this season - which is already two more than last season when we had very good numbers defensively - is impressive.
"Then you see his human values and the way he affects youngsters; he is the perfect role model for out football club. We have a good group of young goalkeepers who can follow that sort of example, and that is why it's so significant he has agreed to stay with Everton for a long, long period."
BREAKING: Tim Howard signs contract extension until 2018. #WeAreEvertonians pic.twitter.com/CjcZ0AY4cx
— Everton (@Everton) April 17, 2014
