Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard has hit back at his critics.

Howard has been the subject of some criticism for recent displays, and David Moyes has admitted he would like to add greater competition to his goal-keeping ranks to ensure his number one stays focused.

But the 33-year-old said: "I think it (competition) is important I really do. But I have never really allowed myself to get too caught up in the competition element of it.

"I think every team needs competition for every place if they can afford it, maybe even three players. I'm 33. I've been around, played a lot of seasons, had to push people and I've been pushed.

"But I'm a firm believer that I work as hard as anyone. I don't miss days in training, I don't stay in the physio room too long if ever, I push myself and drive myself hard. That's what's important."