Martinez hints that Tim Howard could leave Everton in the summer

Everton manager Roberto Martinez has dropped a strong hint that Tim Howard's days on Merseyside are numbered after some notable blunders between the sticks this campaign.

The U.S. shot stopper's successful efforts at claiming crosses against Leicester City and Stoke City were met by ironic cheers by the Toffees' support in December. And while Howard recently missed games to due a knee injury, deputy Joel Robles performed admirably with three clean sheets.

For the first time in a 10-year stay with Everton, 36-year-old Howard's goalkeeping spot is under threat.

"Tim has another two years after this summer so I don't have to make a decision. I've spoken to Tim about everything in general - how he's feeling about the injury, his thoughts about the national team, and how he feels fresh and good," Martinez said on Friday.

"All that matters now is concentrating on the games in front of us. That's the reality."

When reminded of the questionable reception Howard's efforts have received from the Goodison Park faithful lately, Martinez delivered a tribute to the veteran shot stopper - a monologue fitting for the last rites of the ex-Manchester United man's Everton career.

Ten years down the line you'll be looking back on one of Everton's greatest goalkeepers and appreciating that he is an ambassador for the club in the way he behaves himself, helping the young players and in his day-to-day approach. He will have that legacy further down the line. I don't think it is a case of disrespect. It's just the short-term memory and assessment of what you have seen - that happens, I don’t think that's being disrespectful.

This is the 10th season of Tim Howard at Everton and I know that, as a football club, we will have to take a bit of time to consider his best moments and what he has done for this club. We should appreciate that and give him that warmth between now and the end of the season. I think it's important that Tim doesn't feel that all his good work has been forgotten.

Howard has been repeatedly linked with a return to his homeland, and the Colorado Rapids - who traded first-choice 'keeper Clint Irwin to Toronto FC this offseason - have been touted as a potential suitor for the 106-time U.S. international.

A late decision will be made on Howard's fitness for Saturday's visit of West Bromwich Albion, although Robles could feel aggrieved if he loses his place after stemming a previously generous flow of goals allowed by the Toffees' backline.