Moyes backs Valente to shine for Everton

Left-back fighting fit says coach

Everton manager David Moyes is backing Portuguese defender Nuno Valente to rid himself of injuries and make an impact in the upcoming Premiership season.

Valente has made just 43 appearances for the Toffees since moving to Goodison Park in 2005 from Porto, and missed most of the second half of last season with knee, calf and thigh problems.

However, having fully recovered from the various problems, Valente has been taking full part in Everton’s pre-season, which has included a tour of the United States, and Moyes is hopeful that the 32-year-old can rediscover his best form.

“Nuno has come back in really good condition,” said Moyes.

“Missing pre-season has a really big impact on the remainder of the year for a player and perhaps we didn’t appreciate just how much the World Cup took out of him.

“He looks as if he is determined and he will come on a lot for being involved just now. He really needs five or six weeks training to get back up to the speed of Premier League football, but he is already half way there.

“Once he gets up and running, he will be fine. You have to remember he is Portugal’s left-back and is a very good footballer. Portugal are one of the best sides in Europe and he is a regular for them, so that shows his quality.

“We know that he has had his injury problems in the past but we hope they are behind him and that he can go and play a part for us this season. He is a popular lad in the squad and let’s hope we see the best of him.”