14 Feb 2014 07:53
Blues want veteran to see out his career at Goodison
Tony Hibbert challenges Luke Freeman
Roberto Martinez will offer Tony Hibbert a new deal in the summer in a bid to persuade him to remain at Everton for the rest of his career.
The veteran right-back is out of contract in June, but the Blues boss is prepared to propose a likely one-year extension.
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Hibbert, who turns 33 next week, has struggled with injury this term and dropped behind Seamus Coleman in the first-team pecking order.
But Martinez insists that the defender, who has been at the club since progressing from the academy and made 319 appearances along the way, remains a valuable asset.
Photo by Gavin Trafford. Austria Vienna v Everton FC pre season match at Generali Arena Vienna. Tony Hibbert battles for the ball
He said: “At the moment it’s been a frustrating season for Tony because of his injury problems which have stopped him competing for his place. John Stones and Seamus have taken advantage of being fully fit and have played games.
“That doesn’t change Tony’s position here though, he has the experience and understanding of the club which is massive.
“The role he has is not like other players who can only help the team by playing at the weekend.
“Tony’s role is bigger than that – he comes in every morning and the standard he sets is important. He helps us develop and he will always have a role at Everton for me.”
The ECHO understands that Hibbert has not become unsettled despite his limited opportunities this term, and remains keen to remain a one-club man like team-mate and friend Leon Osman. And he has not given up on playing a part in Everton’s dual ambitions of a top four finish and FA Cup glory this season either after returning to full fitness in recent weeks.
“Tony came on against Stevenage and has been unfortunate not to play more minutes since then,” added Martinez. “He came on against Aston Villa and showed everyone he is ready and it’s a matter of just being patient now.”
Everton will know the rescheduled date for their postponed clash with Crystal Palace early next week.
The Blues held talks with Premier League officials yesterday and agreed that a decision on a new date will be made on either Monday or Tuesday.
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