TIM HOWARD is on course to compete a decade of service at Everton FC after agreeing a new four-year deal.

Howard yesterday put pen to paper on a new contract that extends his EFC commitment until 2016.

The United States international, who joined from Manchester United in 2006 initially on season-long loan, had two years remaining on his existing agreement.

Howard holds the record for the Everton FC goalkeeper with the most clean sheets in a Premier League season and even found the target in the January defeat to Bolton Wanderers.

The 33-year-old has appeared in the Goodison outfit’s last 171 league matches, with only Neville Southall having played in more consecutive top-flight games.

And Howard said: “I couldn’t be happier. I’ve had a smile on my face ever since we finalised the deal.

“When you have a really good relationship in life and both sides are eager to continue and  keep that going, it’s a no-brainer.

“This hasn’t been a knockdown, drawn-out type of negotiation with meetings or anything like that. They were very happy to keep me here and I was very, very happy to stay.

“It’s a place that is home for me.”

Howard has been integral in helping Everton FC embark on another strong showing after the New Year with an ongoing eight-match beaten run.