Martinez: Getting into Europe is a big objective
Everton manager Roberto Martinez feels his side can take a large step forward if they get into Europe and says that Evertonians make the games massive occasions.
Martinez says that although top 4 is still mathematically possible it is realistically out of reach (although they won’t give up) although the Europa League should become a target
Martinez said: “It wouldn’t be a hindrance, not at all. Qualifying for Europe for us would be a massive step forward because it would bring massive football occasions that I do feel we need to be able to develop into the type of team we want to be.
“Getting into Europe is a big objective and something that would allow us to grow as a football club. All you need to do is at the beginning of the season plan the campaign, bearing in mind you are going to be in Europe and that brings extra demands.”
“We have 48 points and that is a good return. Can we get top four? Mathematically we can. You look at the points tally you might need to get in those positions and that is still achievable.
“It would depend as well on how the other clubs react to being – or not being – in Europe. Many aspects are going to affect the points tally needed to be in the top four. After that you have the Europa League to fight for.”
Can Everton make it into Europe this season? Have your say at www.theevertonforum.com
I am surprised he has sort of conceded before the end of March.The next 3 games are all eminently winnable.Two Welsh teams at home and Fulham,in freefall,away.Should be 9 points nailed on,shouldn’t it? The Newcastle fixture,will be against an effectively managerless side,won’t it? Plus Tony Pulis’ sides always slide towards the end of the season,when safe from relegation.So there are another 6 points.We’ve got Arsenal and Man U at home and should have a lot to play for in terms of pride and past slights,so should get some return there too.Which leaves Southampton and Sunderland away.How many points would you expect from them? We owe the Mackems for their spawning the match at Goodison and we’ve got a great record againstthe ‘Saints ‘ too. Come on Robbie,I know you have to be pragmatic,as well as realistic,but let yourself dream Senor.
I know I didn’t mention Hull and City.I don’t really think we’ll get anything off either of them. Long and Jela will probably marmalize us and Barry is ineligible against the Blue Mancs.