Fernandes seals Everton return

Portuguese midfielder completes loan move

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 12th January 2008

fernandes manuel valencia

Fernandes: Back at Goodison

Everton have completed the loan signing of Manuel Fernandes from Valencia.

The Portuguese midfielder spent the second half of last season on loan at Goodison Park and scored twice in nine Premier League appearances.

He appeared set to join the club permanently in the summer but decided instead on a move to Spain.

But David Moyes has now brought back the highly-rated 21-year-old for the rest of the current campaign.

He has received international clearance but not in time to feature against Manchester City on Saturday.

Fernandes' debut could come in the Premier League clash against Wigan next weekend.

Moyes will be relieved to have strengthened his midfield with Steven Pienaar on African Cup of Nations duty and Leon Osman injured.