Fernandes set for Mestalla stay

Midfielder eager for success in Spain

By Francisco Acedo   Last updated: 11th August 2008

Manuel Fernandes

Fernandes: Everton link

Valencia midfielder Manuel Fernandes looks set to stay in Spain after impressing in pre-season.

Fernandes has been linked with a permanent move to Everton throughout the summer after spending two previous loan spells at Goodison Park.

However, new Valencia manager Unai Emery is understood to want to keep the 22-year-old at the Mestalla.

And the news will come as a boost to Fernandes, who is eager to help Valencia recover from last season's disappointing campaign.

"I want to succeed in Spain," Fernandes told Spanish media. "But I need more confidence from the coach."

Fernandes began an initial four-month loan period with Everton in January 2007, before returning for a second temporary stint on Merseyside at the beginning of this year.