Donovan desperate to stay at Everton
Published 23:00 08/03/10 By David Maddock
Landon Donovan is desperate to extend an Everton adventure he believes will help him destroy England’s World Cup hopes.
The American winger is still hoping he can stay on at Goodison for another month, even though his loan agreement with the Merseyside club is due to end after Saturday's trip to Birmingham.
Talks are continuing between Blues boss David Moyes and the player’s club LA Galaxy, following a highly successful two-month stint in England.
Donovan revealed he wants to prolong his stay because of the confidence taking on the Premier League’s big guns has given him. And he believes he can help defeat Fabio Capello's side in South Africa.
The United States face England in the opening World Cup Group C game on June 12 and the experienced forward believes a massive shock could be on the cards.
"Being at Everton has put me in a stronger position for the World Cup, no doubt at all,” he explained.
"The biggest thing now is having the confidence that I can play against anybody and not fear anyone at all, because I’ve played against the best in the world here.
"My game has improved so much from playing in England, but I believe in my ability and what I can do.
"I know what I have to give and I bring that out of myself a lot more often. There have been some incredible results and performances with Everton against the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea, and I know I am capable of that.
"But this has really improved me as a player – it's impossible not to. I have learned a lot technically, tactically, and how to keep myself motivated."
Everton want Donovan for another month and there is a chance it will happen, especially with suggestions of a strike by players in the MLS.
The American season begins on March 25, but so far the players have failed to reach agreement on a new deal, as a row brews over contracts and transfer rights.
Donovan will find out more before his designated final game this weekend.
"Both clubs know how I feel, which is that I would like to stay, although I'd have to go back on April 15 at the latest,” he said.
"If that can be worked out, great. If not, then the Galaxy are my team and I'm very grateful for the chance I had here. It would be bittersweet either way, but I'd say there is a chance I could stay.
"It would be wonderful. I’ve had so many experiences and the highlights have to be getting the chance to beat Chelsea and Manchester United in the same week.
"Not too many players in the world, let alone Americans, have done that. And if Sunday's game against Hull does end up being my last, then scoring was the cherry on top."
