Tim Howard believes he has been pushed a step closer to an exit from Manchester United by Edwin Van der Sar's contract extension with the Old Trafford club.

And the 26-year-old USA international, currently on a season-long loan at Everton, understands discussions about a permanent move to Goodison Park have already taken place.

He said: "The contract is fantastic news for Edwin, I'd imagine United would be delighted to keep him for as long as he's fit. But it affects my mindset, of course. It's like a game of chess."