Moyes welcomes Donovan deal

Everton boss David Moyes believes the arrival of Landon Donovan in January will give his side a much-needed shot in the arm.

Moyes confirmed on Friday the USA striker will join the Toffees on a short-term loan deal when the transfer window opens next month. Everton have been hampered throughout the first half of the season by a lengthy injury list and Moyes sees Donovan, 27, as the first of a handful of signings that could increase his options.

"He will bring me some experience, some pace and he is a good finisher," said Moyes.

Donovan, like Los Angeles Galaxy team-mate David Beckham, has been given permission to prepare for the 2010 Major League Soccer season, which begins in March, with a European club.

He may be at Goodison Park for as little as 10 weeks before returning to the US but Moyes feels that could be enough to give his side a lift.

He added: "He gives me another body, which we needed, and I think we need to add another two or three in January.

"American boys in the main tend to come over here and do well. He was voted the best player in MLS, so I think he can bring some qualities we can use.

"He is relatively experienced and I need these players to come in and hit the ground running, not need a month or two to get ready."

Donovan failed to make an impact in previous spells with German clubs Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich but Moyes expects him to respond well to the challenge of playing in the Barclays Premier League.

He said: "This is a test to see if he can maybe jump up to the level. I think he can. I see the American team regularly and know what is there. He is thought of highly in America and is a really talented player."