Xavier still holds out on Everton

Last updated : 08 January 2002 By Austin Rathe
The Portugese player is quoted as saying "Legally I can sign a contract with any club I want. I have to consider all my options, and I am also waiting for a concrete offer from Everton, as they have expressed a desire to keep me."

Xavier last week said that he would definatly leave if Everton sacked Walter Smith, and this action, along with similar moves from other players, may well have kept Smith in his job.

"I will analyse all the possibilities, but I would like to taste a higher level than what I am at now - to play in Europe if possible. " Said Xavier.

"Being a 'Bosman' player, the other teams don't have to pay any money for me, who knows I may yet join a team in the Champions League."