Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard says his back is as strong as ever.

Howard made a welcome return to action for Everton in their win over Stoke on Saturday, having missed the previous three games with a back problem.

"I didn't take a knock on it which would've set me back so I'm happy," he said.

"Stoke are always a rough and tumble team.

"I wanted to make sure that for this game I was as fit as I could possibly be to give myself every chance."