Everton manager Roberto Martinez has heaped praise on goalkeeper Tim Howard for his contribution to the club.

The 34-year-old USA international is currently into his eighth year at Goodison Park following a move from Manchester United in 2007.

Martinez believes that Howard is a model professional for the Toffees, who are enjoying a strong start to the season in the Premier League.

"Tim is a special footballer and human being at Everton, because he represents everything I want from a player," Martinez told the Liverpool Echo. "He has incredible professionalism, a great vision and he influences people around and he is someone as good as you will see in this league.

"Tim has been incredible in terms of understanding how we want to play and he has played an incredible role in how we want to start our play."

Everton continue their Premier League campaign on Sunday when they travel to Swansea City.