05.03.2010
Everton keen on extending Donovan loan spell
Landon Donovan of Los Angeles Galaxy controls the ball against Real Salt Lake during the MLS Cup final in Seattle, 2009.
Everton manager David Moyes said Friday he was hopeful that LA Galaxy would agree to extend Landon Donovan's loan spell beyond the end of this month.
The United States captain has been a hit since his arrival at Goodison Park in January but had been due to return to Los Angeles at the end of March to prepare for the new Major League Soccer season.
"I'm keen to keep Landon and it sounds initially in America that they might say yes," Moyes said. "I think Landon is keen to stay also so it looks as though all parties are keen. But I have not got that confirmed yet, I can't say exactly if that is going to happen. If we can make it happen we will."
Moyes added: "It is very rare you can bring in someone in January on loan who can make a real difference to you but Landon has. He came in when the team was on the up, so that has suited him, but we cannot deny he has done well.
"Landon had to be thrown straight in so we had to find out very quickly if he could do a job or not.
"But I think his manager at LA Galaxy would say the best World Cup preparation for him would be to start in their team.
"They will be keen to get him back so we will have to be respectful of their wishes. If we can keep him it would be nice but if not I totally understand it."
If there is no deal to extend Donovan's stay, Sunday's clash with struggling Hull will be his last at Goodison Park.
Moyes is hoping the American can be joined in the team by Tim Cahill, who is battling to overcome a calf injury.
"He is getting closer," Moyes said of the Australian. "He has not trained yet but there is a chance he might train tomorrow. If he does that would give him a chance."
Top scorer Louis Saha will miss the match with a hamstring injury and Phil Jagielka is doubtful with a thigh strain.
Source: © 2010 AFP - Otto Greule Jr
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