Tim Howard has spoken of his special bond with Everton as he prepares to return to business in the Europa League.

The former Manchester United goalkeeper, and the USA's number one, is content with life at Goodison Park ahead of the home match against Benfica.

He said: "I am exactly where I want to be in my career. I am at a stage where I envisaged I would be as a goalkeeper.

"That doesn't mean there won't be tough days but we all have problems to bear. That is all part of it. You have to take the bumps and the bruises.

"This is my fourth season and I really feel embedded in the fabric of the club."