Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard has credited the form of left-back Leighton Baines and left-winger Steven Pienaar as playing key roles in the Toffee’s success this season.

 

"Bainesy has been great at left-back and I can't say enough good things about him," said Howard, “Steven is so creative and has really stepped up since we lost Mikel Arteta to injury. Bainesy gets forward, overlaps and sticks some great balls into the box. He also works hard to get back and cover when Bainesy goes forward. Those two have got a good thing going and are the perfect combination.”

The United States international admitted that the pair had caused him to ignore other players. Howard apologised to Lars Jacobsen a week ago after ignoring him in favour of the Baines/Pienaar partnership despite Jacobsen being unmarked.

Toffees boss David Moyes has acknowledged that his squad needs further improvement if they are to be in any position to challenge the big four. Everton do have a place in next seasons Europa Cup to look forward to but with the injuries suffered by key individuals throughout the season, Moyes has assured fans he is aware of the short-comings at Goodison.

“I know that we are going to need more players,” said the Scot “I think when you want to finish in the top four or five in the Premier League you are going to need more than Bosmans. We will need to make signings to add to the players we have here.”