Howard Nears Nev's Record

Moyes hails US stopper as milestones loom.

As Tim Howard closes in on Neville Southall's record of consecutive league appearances, David Moyes has heaped praise on the American.

The United States international made his 300th Everton appearance when the Blues took on Norwich at Carrow Road on Saturday.

And having started every Premier League fixture since September 2007, the custodian could pass Goodison legend Southall's landmark of 212 back-to-back games in March.

Having originally taken Howard from Manchester United on loan in 2006, Moyes opted to sign the glovesman permanently the following February and in 2008/09 he set the Club record for most clean sheets in a league campaign.

Now with the approaching milestones in sight, the Blues boss has paid tribute to Howard's service and consistency.

"[Those records] say a lot," Moyes exclusively told evertontv.

"They tell you he's someone we trust. He's been very good since he came from Manchester United - he's been excellent.

"He had to replace Nigel Martyn which was no mean feat and if he gets anywhere close to a record Neville Southall's had, that's doing something, I've got to say, because Neville was a great goalkeeper.

"We've been fortunate and Tim's done really well."