Everton manager David Moyes hopes Tim Cahill's recent busy schedule with the Australian national team will not burn him out for club duty. The 29-year old has been in brilliant form for his country this year, scoring five goals in his past four outings, but his performances for the Toffees have not been at their usual levels.

Moyes is aware that Cahill is required to play for the Socceroos but says the fact he is getting older and needs to take care of his body at this stage of his career should see him begin to implement a healthy balance of club and country.

"Tim is a terrific player for us with his effort and endeavour, and we need that,'' Moyes said, according to UKPA. It is part of the spirit of this club and he has been a big part of that. But we must remember that Tim is not getting any younger, either.

"He has travelled a long way around the world to play for Australia earlier in the month, so at some point there is going to be an effect on his game. A lot depends on how he looks after himself and prepares for games."

Everton are currently struggling, not only with injuries, but also with results as they sit 12th on the Premier League with just 13 points from 10 matches.