Everton consider new Fernandes loan deal

9:59am Wednesday 14th May 2008

Manuel Fernandes' form at the end of the season could have won him another loan move to Everton, according to manager boss David Moyes.

The Portuguese midfielder has now returned to Valencia at the end of a short-term loan that saw him play 14 games for the Toffees and although Moyes will not consider a £12million permanent move, the prospect of a loan for next season is being considered.

Moyes said: "Fernandes' form towards the end of the season was much improved. He has got better, he passed the ball well. Much like last season when he arrived and got better as things went along."

He added: "He certainly looked in better shape, physically, than he did when he first came (in January). We are going to assess his situation over the coming weeks, I have got a few ideas of what I want to do with him. It will happen in time."

Fernandes returned to Goodison, after initially having also been on-loan the season before, in mid-season after experiencing disciplinary problems at Valencia, and initially his form and fitness were in question.

But because of the injuries to Mikel Arteta and Tim Cahill, Fernandes found himself involved for the final seven games of the season and he played a significant part in securing a UEFA Cup spot.

Moyes will also appoint an assistant manager in the summer, having lost Alan Irvine to Preston halfway through last term.

Reserve team coach Andy Holden filled in admirably for the final months, but Moyes may turn to Newcastle's Steve Round to add to his coaching staff.

Round, who has been linked with Everton for some time, is out of contract as first team coach at Newcastle in a month and there are doubts over whether his deal will be renewed.

News in brief