AliousWith nine matches remaining in the Premier League season, Everton remain firmly in contention for a place in European competition. Their 2–0 victory over Burnley on Tuesday night moved them to within one point of seventh-placed Brentford, two points behind sixth-placed Chelsea, and five adrift of reigning champions Liverpool in fifth.
If the Toffees can begin turning their home form around at Hill Dickinson Stadium—after going six league matches there without a win—while maintaining their impressive performances away from home, manager David Moyes could yet guide the club back into Europe.
The challenge ahead is far from straightforward. Everton still have difficult fixtures approaching, including home matches against Chelsea, Liverpool and second-placed Manchester City, as well as an upcoming trip to league leaders Arsenal.
With qualification spots for the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Europa Conference League all still up for grabs, Everton supporters could have an exciting end to the campaign.
Interestingly, Everton’s push for Europe has even been backed by former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Liverpool’s history alongside Kenny Dalglish, Gerrard nevertheless praised Moyes and Everton after their win over Burnley.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Gerrard said Moyes had done an outstanding job and predicted Everton could still sneak into the European places. He suggested the team could even apply pressure on rivals such as Liverpool, Chelsea and Brentford as the season reaches its climax.
Elsewhere in the race, Brentford were held to a 0–0 draw away at AFC Bournemouth, while Liverpool suffered a 2–1 defeat to bottom-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers. Meanwhile, Chelsea secured a convincing 4–1 win against Aston Villa, moving up to fifth place.
As a result, Everton now sit five points behind both Chelsea and Liverpool, who slipped to sixth following Chelsea’s victory.
Moyes’ side return to action on March 14 with a challenging away trip to Arsenal. That match will be followed by a home game against Chelsea, a visit to Brentford, and a highly anticipated clash with Liverpool at Hill Dickinson Stadium. This four-game stretch could ultimately define Everton’s season.
Away from the pitch, the club are also exploring the possibility of arranging a warm-weather training camp before their next Premier League fixtures resume. However, unlike last year, Everton will not travel to the Middle East.
Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates had been considered as a potential destination, with Moyes having taken his squad there for a similar camp last February. But plans for that region have been scrapped following the recent outbreak of conflict after air strikes involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
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