U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard faces uncertain future at Everton

The future of U.S. international goalkeeper Tim Howard remains unclear after Everton manager Roberto Martinez refused to speculate whether the iconic shot-stopper has a long-term place at the club.

Howard, who's under contract with the Toffees until 2018, has attracted interest from a number of different clubs after a string of positive performances. While the U.S. 'keeper has also come under fire in recent months, Martinez says talk one way or the other is still premature.

"It is impossible to say that. We need to take it game by game and week by week," Martinez told reporters when asked if Howard would be at Everton next season. "I want Tim to feel stronger in every game. Watching him in training, I don't see a sign of weakness or him being worn down or tired. It is the opposite.

"He is up for the challenge, up for helping the team and keeping up standards. I'm sure every experience will affect what you want to do in the summer."

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Despite remaining purposefully unclear about Howard's future at Goodison Park, Martinez had no qualms praising the American goalkeeper, who's made over 350 appearances in the Premier League with the Toffees - a club record.

"He cares about our football club and has an incredible attachment to it. He is trying to interact with the fans with the experience he has," Martinez said, of Howard. "Tim would never blame a defender for his mistake and I appreciate that ... He is part of our club and our badge.

"He had mistakes but he had big moments. We need to be more understanding that sometimes you're going to get that. His day-to-day work shows me the strength, power, and positive effect he has on young players. I feel we are a stronger team with Tim Howard in the dressing room."