Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard talks up importance of duo

Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard believes that Kevin Mirallas and Aaron Lennon could play a key role for the club during the busy festive period.

The duo have been restricted to limited first-team action so far this campaign, with Belgium international Mirallas not starting a league game since the opening weekend of the season while Lennon has only made two appearances in the starting XI.

Both players came on as substitutes during the 3-2 home defeat to Leicester last weekend and their impressive performances were capped by Mirallas scoring a late goal for Roberto Martinez’s side.

The late cameo appearances impressed Howard and he is convinced the duo could have a huge role to play over the Christmas period and during the second half of the campaign.

He said: “It was great to see Kev get his goal. He’s been training hard, he works hard. He’s a top player for us. And Azza with his pace and ability to get down the line – he did well so it was good for them to give us that boost we needed.”

The pair will both be hoping to start the Blues’ next match against Newcastle at St James’ Park on Saturday, as the side aims to end a mini-blip that has seen them fail to win any of their last four league games.

The Toffees are on offer at 2.25 to secure a victory in the north east, the Magpies are 3.20 and the draw is 3.40.