Count Lee in

Last updated : 22 May 2007 By Les Roberts
The lure of European football was enough to keep the him at Goodison for another year.

Even the prospect of two years at Wigan couldn't change his mind!

But it's good news that both he and Alan Stubbs have committed themselves to the Blues for another year as, despite their advancing years, they were two of the most consistent performers last season.

Carlsey made 42 appearances for Everton last term and was an integral part of the strong midfield that served us so well all season.

Upon signing the new deal, the Irish international said: "I am absolutely delighted to be honest. I have had a fantastic time here and hopefully that can continue now.

"Myself and the gaffer sat down two or three months ago and he said he wanted me to stay and I said I wanted to stay as well. I am just glad we have come to an agreement.

"We have got the UEFA Cup to look forward to next season. The manager has got the right blend at the minute and that is important."

Another player that could be playing alongside Carsley next season is Wigan's Paul Scharner.

The Austrian international, best remembered for being on the recieving end of the best dig ever thrown on a football picth, is unhappy at Wigan and doesn't want to take part in another relegation fight.

Scharner said of his prospects for next season: "I`ve got no desire to spend another year in footballing no-mans land, battling against relegation. I am good enough to take on bigger responsibilities, like the Champions League or the UEFA Cup."

He added: "I am under contract with Wigan until 2009 but who knows what might happen during the summer. I hope Chris Hutchings will change Wigans style of play otherwise we will once again be fighting relegation right up until the final day."

Which won't do much to endear him to anyone, and I wouldn't want some snide character like that playing for Everton.

Having said that, if we were to sign him, at least it would stop him scoring against us...unless he got a touch of the Phil Neville's!