LIVERPOOL -- Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard has been a "big rock" for the club even through a difficult start to his season, according to manager Roberto Martinez.
Howard was a star of the U.S. team as they reached the World Cup's last-16, where they were knocked out by Belgium on July 1. But he was not at his best in the early stages of the English season after the tournament, most notably conceding soft goals in a 3-2 home league defeat against Crystal Palace and a 3-0 Capital One Cup loss at Swansea in September.
Howard is the only member of Everton's squad to have played every minute of all 19 of their league and cup matches this season. And Martinez feels that the 35-year-old has overcome his shaky start to the campaign to prove why he is such a valuable player for the club.
The manager said: "Tim has been at a very, very good level. It's always a difficult start to the campaign when you've been at a World Cup, or when you've had a really competitive tournament. Tim had that, but what I like about him is his demeanour and the way he affects others.
"He's always the first one to face the situation and try to help the group. He's a leader within the group. I think we've had some outstanding performances from Tim, and he's been consistent throughout the season.
"I'm really pleased with his contribution, but more importantly with the way he behaves behind the scenes and the way he's a big rock in the dressing room."