Everton manager David Moyes has revealed that he worked very quickly to land Tim Howard when the netminder became available from Manchester United this summer.

The US international was brought in on a season's loan to grab the starting assignment and get solid work for the first time since he surrendered the top job midway through his second season at Old Trafford.

Moyes claims he got a tip, and wasted no time in arriving on United's doorstep to make an enquiry.

"It's someone who, by the end of the season, I want to get picked up quickly," he told YA.

"We had a very good goalkeeper in Nigel Martyn, who was an England goalkeeper that had to retire through injury, so I felt we needed to strengthen there."

"I got a little bit of information that might be that Tim might go on loan."

The Toffees currently have no contractual avenue to purchase Howard outright at the end of the season, but Moyes reminded that things can change rather fast in the Premiership.

"I'm hoping he comes and does well," said the Goodison Park boss. "If the loan goes well enough, then maybe we can get him permanently, but that'll be Manchester United's decision."

The Scottish manager is well aware of Howard's struggles from the past two terms, but is confident his new backstop can rise from the adversity.

"Two years ago, he was of course of the best keeper in the Premier League," he recalled. "One or two things went against him, now he's got to come back."

"It's a test for him as well and we are happy to give him that opportunity. When you get the opportunities, and you get the jersey on, you need to take them."

"He will get that opportunity and hopefully be able to take it and have a good season with us."

Moyes is no stranger to Yanks, having coached Brian McBride and chased the likes of Clint Dempsey and Josh Wolff.

"The American lads are always the same," he asserted. "I saw Brian McBride for both Preston North End and Everton, so I know exactly what you get when you see Americans.

"You're getting whole hearted and honest players who are real keen on coming to the Premiership."

"I think Tim is looking for more regular games," said Moyes. "Hopefully, if he plays well he will get that for Everton."

[note]YA's Rich Fidler also contributed to this report[/note]