Manuel Fernandes' form at the end of the season could have won him another loan move to Everton, according to manager boss David Moyes.

The Portuguese midfielder has now returned to Valencia at the end of a short-term loan that saw him play 14 games for the Toffees as they clinched fifth place in the Barclays Premier League and a place in the UEFA Cup.

It was the second loan spell the 22-year-old Lisbon-born star had completed at Goodison Park. On both occasions any hope of a permanent move were ended due to the £12million asking price, with the ownership of Fernandes' playing rights by a third party also proving problematic.

But although Everton boss Moyes will again not consider a permanent move, the prospect of a third loan for next season is being considered.

Moyes said: "Fernandes' form towards the end of the season was much improved. He has got better, he passed the ball well. Much like last season when he arrived and got better as things went along.

"He certainly looked in better shape, physically, than he did when he first came (in January). We are going to assess his situation over the coming weeks, I have got a few ideas of what I want to do with him. It will happen in time."