DUNCAN FERGUSON'S Everton career could be over as early as next month after manager David Moyes revealed his fears that the centre-forward could finally be losing his long-term battle with injuries.

Although there is no specific ailment preventing Ferguson from turning out - he's featured in all but two of the side's fixtures this season - the player,, who turns 34 in 10 days' time, has admitted to Moyes that he feels that he may no longer be able to compete at the top level.

Moyes said: "Duncan is struggling. He's considering calling it a day as his body is finding it hard.

"He's going to look at his future in January as he is possibly not feeling at his best.

"He's feeling as if he's ready to make a decision as over the last month or so he's been struggling and has been a little down."

Moyes also confirmed that it was Ferguson himself who came to him to discuss the frustrations he has been experiencing.

He said: "Duncan approached me and it's been very tough on him.

"His body and his legs are very sore and he's not feeling as if he's up for it.

"Generally, that's the way he feels.

"I spoke to him and he maybe feels that he can't still perform at this level.

"You've got to give him credit for being open and honest about it."

Moyes believes that it is the player's personal pride that has led to his admission.

He said: "Duncan finds it hard not being able to make the kind of impact that he would like in matches and that's what is hurting him.

"I don't think that it has anything to do with him not playing all the time.

"He did well for us last season, often coming on for us as a substitute and scoring crucial goals.

"It was those displays that earned him a new contract until the end of this season."

If Ferguson does decided to call time on his Goodison career, it will serve to heighten the need to bring in additional striking forces to the club when the transfer window opens in January.