Moyes warns off Yobo suitors

By Tom Adams  

Moyes warns off Yobo suitors

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Everton boss David Moyes insists The Toffees have no plans to let Joseph Yobo leave Goodison after rumours linking the defender with Arsenal.

The Nigerian international is one of Everton's most highly-rated stars and has just over a year to run on his contract on Merseyside.

Everton are keen to hold talks with Yobo but, with Arsenal reportedly circling, the defender's future with The Toffees is far from certain.

The former Marseille stopper is also attracting interest from the continent after playing an important role for Moyes in recent seasons, although David Weir and Alan Stubbs have restricted his first team chances of late.

Yobo will be key if Moyes is to re-establish the Liverpool club as European challengers, and the Scot says he has no intention of letting the 25-year-old leave.

"We are looking to add to this squad, not lose our better players," said Moyes.

"Joseph is undoubtedly one of our better players, no question.

"He has been kept out of the team by players who have been playing well.

"If you do well then you expect a fair crack of the whip, that is what happens in football.

"But Joe's performances were really good for us and we know what he has got about him."

However Moyes has been much less complimentary in his assessment of goalkeeper Richard Wright, who is currently in the team due to an injury to regular number one Nigel Martyn.

The former Arsenal man has been warned that he risks being dropped in favour of youngster Iain Turner if he does not improve his form.

"Richard will be in goal this weekend but he knows he needs to do better than he has been," said the Everton boss.

"I'm showing faith but we have a good young keeper in Turner and we would have a look at him if Richard's performances do not improve.

"He is getting my backing because I believe he is a good goalkeeper.

"When we brought him here he was third choice for England, so he certainly has the ability."