Everton FC's Sylvain Distin finds relief in the Finch Farm punch bag
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 1 2013
IN professional sport, one momentary lapse can have devastating consequences.
The split second it takes for a champion boxer to drop his guard or shift his feet, can be the difference between unbridled glory or abject failure. Sylvain Distin knows all about the fine margins of performing as a top-level athlete. The 35-year-old’s errant back-pass in Everton’s FA Cup semi-final last April which allowed Luis Suarez to lead rivals Liverpool’s fightback was one such moment.
And Distin, who is close friends with Liverpool’s commonwealth light-heavyweight champion Tony Bellew, finds parallels between the unflinching arena of the boxing ring and the football pitch.
And as an avid fight-fan, the defender has found solace and an outlet for the frustrations of his day-job by pulling on a pair of boxing gloves. “Boxers train hard for a month and then their fight can be decided one way or another in a couple of minutes,” says the player raised in Paris’ Western suburbs. “You can be on top of the guy and then with one punch it’s over. That must be really difficult mentally. “It’s hard to compare that to football but then when a lot of people ask me about my best memories at Everton I often think about the semi final. It was a bad moment and the fans may still be angry now about it, but personally I learned so much. “I wouldn’t ever want to relive it again, make no mistake about that. But now I stand back, and realise I learned a lot about the people around me, my team mates, the fans, even about myself. Maybe it’s similar in boxing.
“You train so hard and then one little mistake changes everything. “Then you have to work from the bottom again and be really strong mentally. That’s the differences between a top sports man and an average one. You have to get back on your feet quickly when you lose. “You can’t have doubts in your mind. Boxers can’t be questioning themselves in the next fight; whether to hold back or go for it. “Like in football when you make a mistake, what do you do next time? Do you try again, try something different or hide and not want the ball? Mentally it’s the same in a way.”
Never one to shirk a difficult scenario, Distin was a street-wise youth raised on the values of hard work and being able to defend yourself. It’s why he embraces the tough, overtly physical nature of boxing training - an experience he shared with his Everton team-mates when David Moyes sent them to Marbella last month for training which included a stint at professional boxer Matthew Macklin’s gym. “It was really interesting and enjoyable,” he says. “ I started working on the pads here a while ago with our fitness coach Dave Billows.
“I had the opportunity to get to know Tony (Bellew) a few years ago and been to watch all his fights, and my friend Cyrille Diabaté is a UFC fighter. “When I was young I did Taekwondo as well so I’ve always had an interest in martial arts and fighting. “I never really had the time to train that way but as I got to know Tony I realised his training was insane.
“It’s completely different from what we have to do. They were only short sessions but they were tough - very tough.” Everton’s defence has taken a battering in recent weeks, with the Blues twice conceding late in games leading to damaging consequences. Distin and his colleagues have had to face some hard scrutiny, both externally and from themselves, and he admits the heavy-bag at Finch Farm has felt the brunt of his frustration. “You don’t think about anything when you’re hitting the pads,” he says. “You just go hard and when you’re finished you are a lot more relaxed. It’s therapeutic. “I only do a few rounds on the pads, but you feel muscles working that you don't feel playing football. “You can be as fit as you like on the pitch but go on the pads and you’ll feel it. I don’t have the technique either so I just go for power and want to make every shot a hard one so after a minute you’re flagging.” Distin’s boxing training is just one aspect of his dedicated approach to remaining super fit, something that comes from a rigid work ethic forged in childhood. “I don’t know a lot of footballers who came from posh areas,” he says. “Football is popular for a reason because you don’t need much - just a ball. “So obviously when you’re out a lot on the street with your friends you get into scrapes but I didn’t need to fight to survive or anything.
“It was more about learning values like if you want something you have to work for it.”
The defender is determined not to harbour the same frustrations as this week after the Blues have faced Reading on Saturday – a game they must win as they bid to stay in the mix for European qualification. “There’s definitely plenty of things we can still achieve,” he says. As long as there’s still games to play and we’re in the cup there’s incentives between now and May. Tickets are still available for the visit of Reading to Goodison Park on Saturday.
Prices start from £31 for adults and half-price for juniors for the Premier League clash.
To buy visit the Goodison Park Box Office, call 0871 663 1878 or visit the Liverpool city centre ticket outlets at Everton Two or the TicketQuarter in Queen Square.

Fear of retirement drives me on, says Everton defender Sylvain Distin
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 1 2013
SYLVAIN DISTIN insists the buzz of playing for Everton means retirement is unthinkable.
The 35-year-old veteran became the first foreign outfield player to make 400 Premier League appearances last weekend, and is showing no signs of slowing down after signing a year long contract extension in January. Super-fit Distin, who has made 28 appearances already this season, continues to put in the extra hard work to stay in peak Premier League condition, and admits the fear of hanging up his boots drives him on. He said: “ I know how lucky I am to have this job. I know my lifestyle and my families’ life is down to the game. That feeling when you score or win games is big. There are plenty of amazing feelings from playing football that whatever I do when I retire I won’t get. “I don’t particularly like training hard or running until I feel sick. But I do it because keeping fit is the only way for me to play games, and that’s what I love. “I’ve inherited good genes from my dad, but after that it’s hard work. I realised at a certain age that you either rest a lot or work harder so working hard suited me. Every year I try to improve things like my diet etc.
“I love my food but if I can change little things and improve by 5% or stay at the same level it’s good because physically at my age your body stops improving. I won’t jump higher or run faster, but I certainly don’t want to be slower or not jump as high. It will happen but I won’t to put it off.
“There’s no secret. I just work. Beckham is good at free kicks because he stays outside and practices 500 free kicks every day. I’m good physically because every day I stay in the gym and work after training. There’s no magic pill.” Distin is 36 in December but maintains he is postponing any serious thought about a life after football, as he concentrates on success at Everton - the club he joined in summer 2009. “It’s difficult to think what I want to do when I retire, because when you play football you start it very young and that’s the only thing you do,” he said. “I just don’t want to believe I’m going to stop playing.” The former Portsmouth and Manchester City defender said he would be reluctant to consider dropping down a level to prolong his career, because he loves playing for the Toffees in the Premier League. He added: “I’ve got three international players competing for my position. It’s not like it’s an easy choice here, but I’ve got good competition which I like.
“I want to enjoy my football but sure if I suddenly found myself out of the team long-term I’d have to think about dropping down. I want to play. “Everything else is after that. I love playing, I love the atmosphere. If I have to drop down a level then maybe, but that’s not in my thoughts at all because what you get in the PremierLeague you don’t get anywhere else.”

Tim Howard says Everton must take advantage of their run of home games
The Liverpool Post
Mar 1 2013
THE prospect of being just 90 minutes away from a return to Wembley has put a spring in the step of every Evertonian this week. But the remainder of the season will be shaped by matters much closer to home during a pivotal March. Tuesday’s ultimately comfortable victory over Oldham Athletic has made the FA Cup fifth round replay the first of five consecutive home games for David Moyes’s side.
With Everton retaining hope of Champions League qualification as well as seeking to reach a second successive Cup semi-final, the opportunity of gaining Goodison momentum cannot be passed up.
Not least with Moyes’s men facing a daunting final seven weeks during which they must travel to White Hart Lane, the Emirates, Anfield and Stamford Bridge. “We have some tricky away fixtures between now and the end of the season, so it will be important that we take full advantage of this run of home fixtures,” says goalkeeper Tim Howard. “It is going to be tough to go to Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea, where we all have to go before the end of the season, so we need to pick up a bunch of points from these home games. “We are still in the thick of it near the top of the table and we want to still be in the thick of it by the end of this run.” Despite a disappointing defeat at Norwich City last weekend, Everton stand only five points adrift of fifth-placed Arsenal and guaranteed European qualification, and a further two points behind Chelsea in the fourth and final Champions League berth. Their league form, however, has been indifferent with Moyes’s men having won only one of six top-flight games since ending the festive period with a 2-1 win at Newcastle United on January 2. But Howard believes that Everton are in a position to kick on again.
“I don’t think we are firing on all cylinders,” says the goalkeeper. “And at the moment, I think that’s a good thing. We have advanced in the cup and have a home draw, and you look at the league table and we’re still in the thick of it. “We have to start doing the business, but we are still in there. We seem to be higher up the league at this stage of the season than we have been in a while.
“I’d sooner not be firing on all cylinders at this point and be where we are, than be further down the league.” There were conflicting messages from Goodison this week regarding the tiredness of players, with Moyes suggesting the strain was beginning to show and Steven Naismith claiming fatigue hasn’t been an issue within the squad. Howard, however, admits it will be a big ask for Everton’s key players to keep producing the goods over the next few months. “Let’s hope we have something in reserve,” says the United States international. “We spent a lot of energy in the first half of the season, and now it’s more about our big players. “We don’t have a large squad, so it’s going to be about the big players stepping up to the plate and producing. “Most of the teams in and around us have the ability to chop and change their team on a given weekend and still have a lot of firepower. We don’t have that. “So it’ll be up to our big players, who have already played a ton of minutes, to keep producing until the end of the season.” The next of Everton’s Goodison assignments is on Saturday against Reading, who find themselves back in the relegation zone after a heavy defeat at home to similarly struggling Wigan Athletic last week. Wigan are the visitors for next week’s FA Cup quarter-final, with Everton then hosting champions Manchester City and Stoke City. The Carrow Road setback – and the struggle to fend off Oldham in the initial Boundary Park tie – highlighted a recurring inability to hold on to leads that has stunted Everton’s progress this season.
It was apparent at the Madejski Stadium in November when Reading claimed their sole victory in the first half of the season by coming from behind to secure a 2-1 triumph. And Howard admits: “We have to see ourselves through tough parts of the games and be more ruthless and have the killer instinct that when we are controlling the game, we can put it to bed. “I don’t think the quality of our game has been lacking. The work in the middle of the park has been really good, but we need to improve at the business end, both up front and at the back. “We have controlled game such as at Norwich, where at 1-0 they couldn’t get a kick. So it’s about finishing off chances and keeping things tighter at the back.” Of the forthcoming Reading clash, Howard adds: “It makes it tougher that we’ll be coming up against a team that is fighting relegation. We are at home and need to do the job.
“The game at Reading was in some ways the story of our season.” Meanwhile, Everton assistant manager Steve Round has taken great encouragement from the manner in which League One strugglers Oldham were dismissed in midweek. “There were signs that our flow is coming back,” says Round. “I know we were against lower level opposition than we would face in the Premier League but there were still signs that the flow back. “You could see the way Steven Pienaar and Leighton Baines and Kevin Mirallas and Seamus Coleman were linking up. “There is still a quarter of the season to go so there is a lot to play for. We play a lot of the teams around us which makes it interesting. There will not be many teams that want to play Everton.”

Reading are ‘raring to go’ against Everton
Liverpool Echo
Mar 1 2013
READING manager Brian McDermott does not believe his team will suffer a negative reaction from their heavy home defeat against fellow strugglers Wigan when they travel to Everton on Saturday.
The Latics secured a 3-0 win at the Madejski Stadium last weekend, sending McDermott’s side back into the Premier League relegation zone as a result. A tough trip to Goodison Park is next up for the Royals, who picked up their first league win of the season against the Toffees back in November, but McDermott reckons his players are ready to right the wrongs of the Wigan defeat. “Everyone came in on Monday and was ready to crack on,” he said. “The first 43 minutes of that game (against Wigan), we could have been one up and it could have gone either way. “You can look at the camaraderie - Wigan were at their best and are a decent side when the opposition are down to 10 men, but our boys hung in there and the camaraderie is first class, so we have got to move on from that and look ahead to our next game. They are all raring to go. Everyone is raring to go and looking forward to going there.” Reading won on their last visit to Goodison Park, a 1-0 FA Cup fifth-round clash two years ago, and McDermott is a big fan of everything Everton stand for.
“We’ve been to Everton in the FA Cup. It was a great atmosphere and a great night there,” he said.

McDermott keeping Everton selection secret
By Anthony Smith 1 Mar 2013
Reading Chronicles
BRIAN McDermott is embroiled in mind games with Everton boss David Moyes ahead of Saturday's clash at Goodison Park. Royals manager McDermott has been left with a major headache up front following Pavel Pogrebnyak's red card against Wigan. With the Russian serving a three-match ban, Reading's firepower will be severely depleted for looks a daunting test on paper. Royals supporters have been attempting to second guess what McDermott's contingency plan might be on the day with Adam Le Fondre, Nick Blackman and Noel Hunt his only viable options. But McDermott was keen to keep those plans a closely-guarded secret in the build-up to the game. He told the Chronicle: "We've got a few things to work out with Pavel being suspended but we will pick a team accordingly. "I'm confident we can go up there with a competitive team and get the right result.
"I will select the side and see what happens but I don't want to give Everton any clues as to what we might do. I want to keep things to myself. "We've got Alfie, Nick Blackman and Noel Hunt and hopefully Jason Roberts is back sooner rather than later." Reading have lost their last three games in all competitions but will take huge confidence from their 2-1 home win against Everton at Madejski Stadium in November. A brace from Adam Le Fondre brought Reading their first Premier League home victory of the season and three points at Goodison this weekend would complete an impressive double over the Toffees. However, Moyes' side are vying for a Champions League spot and boast an excellent home record in the league. Nevertheless, McDermott is relishing the challenge ahead. "This season has been tough from day one, but that's the Premier League for you," declared Royals' boss. "We've got a very tough month ahead in March, but let's see where we are at the end of it. "People were happy to write us off and say we would be down by Christmas, but we're still in their fighting, we're still in the mix. We're only one point from safety which is nothing in this division, people seem to have overlooked that." Saturday cannot come soon enough for McDermott and his troops in the wake of last weekend's defeat by Wigan Athletic.
"We're just looking forward to getting back to business and getting up to Everton now," he explained. "Last Saturday was tough but it happens in football and you have to deal wit it. You can analyse the game as much as you like but we have to move on and we have. "I think Wigan had their best day of the season so far. When they play like that they're a very good side, but I'm telling you now they won't play like that for the rest of the season. "But I must say I thought our players were terrific. They way they chased the ball down in the second half and put everything into it was really encouraging. They showed a great attitude which will stand us in good stead and I will argue that case with anyone."

Howard Kendall: No point speculating over future Everton manager until there’s a job to fill
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Mar 1 2013
I HAD the pleasure of chatting with Roberto Martinez during the FA Cup game on Tuesday.
The Wigan boss was there to run the rule over both clubs, aware his side would have to face one of them in the quarter final next weekend. The home tie was a huge incentive for Everton and fortunately they had enough about them to get the job done at the second time of asking.
Of course it was interesting being in the Spaniard’s company at Goodison, not least because he has been linked with being the manager one day in the future and David Moyes’ own situation has become a talking point. For me though the time to talk about replacements for the current manager is if there is a job available. Naturally there is some doubt at the present time and it’s inevitable that different people are going to be linked with one day taking charge. I’d like to think the uncertainty won’t effect the players and performances, because strictly speaking what Moyes is thinking has got nothing to do with them. The current squad seems equipped with individuals who are highly professional and the type of guys who will just get on with their jobs. They will have been hurting after throwing it away at Carrow Road last weekend. Any team will be furious with themselves for conceding twice so late in a game. Opposition teams are bombing us a lot recently.
With nothing to lose they are throwing caution to the wind and going all out attack at the end, and throwing bodies into the box. Oldham saw the benefits of that approach at Boundary Park and so did Norwich. At least with a principled coach like Martinez we’re unlikely to face that type of bombardment next Saturday.

David Prentice: Wigan set to flare up once again at Goodison Park
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Mar 1 2013
WHEN Wigan first visited Goodison Park, in January 1980, they were an upwardly mobile Fourth Division club – who were followed to Merseyside by an enormous army of travelling fans.
The attendance for the fourth round tie was a staggering 51,863 (the gate for the visit of Aldershot in the previous round was 23,700). Everywhere you looked around Goodison you could see donkey jackets, flared trousers, three star jumpers and oxblood Airwair – in an age when the home support sophisticates had moved on to Pod shoes, jumbo cords and ski jumpers (not me, obviously. I was still a Sexy Rexy shopper rather than Harold Ian). Next Saturday Wigan will bring considerably less, more trendily attired fans to Goodison. But the threat the Latics will pose will be considerably more than it was 33 years ago. The Blues won that fourth round tie comfortably 3-0. I suspect they’d settle for one off Nikica Jelavic’s backside next weekend Those suggesting Everton’s potency in front of goal has been compromised by his injury may point to his goals record in the matches the Belgian has completed since then. Mirallas made 15 appearances – 12 of them starts – without a goal after that Swansea strike. But look at his contributions elsewhere. The pass to Victor Anichebe against Aston Villa and the corner dropped on Phil Jagielka’s head at Oldham were the seventh and eighth assists of the Belgian forward’s injury-hit-season. Mirallas has been missed far more than many may think.

David Prentice: Anxious Everton FC fans just not willing to ‘wait and see’
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Mar 1 2013
THE air of anxiety, tension and barely suppressed panic was tangible at Goodison Park on Tuesday night – never more fraught than the second half moment when Leon Osman unselfishly but unwisely elected to pull a pass back to a team-mate rather than shoot. Everton were winning 3-1 at the time.
But the apparent comfort of the scoreline did little to soothe agitated nerves. It was a frantic atmosphere which only really eased when Michael Oliver blew the final whistle. Yet afterwards the Press Association agency reported a “routine” victory, callers to the national Talksport radio station spoke of a “professional” job and a “comfortable” win, while the BBC reported: “Everton showed their superiority.” That was nationally. Locally there was a very different mindset.
Radio call-ins were still in a state of high anxiety, I clearly heard the words “Well that’s another depressing performance to look forward to” uttered by an Evertonian who wandered past St Luke’s Church, while our own Greg O’Keeffe wrote of the “Goodison faithful never allowing themselves to relax.”
But why?
From the moment Leighton Baines squeezed his penalty kick past Dean Bouzanis, was the victory ever really in doubt? Tim Howard took an aerial buffetting, but was he ever extended to make a significant save? Where did all the negativity come from? Why all the angst? Is it because Everton’s defending from set pieces – actually make that defending full stop – in the last six matches has resembled King Harold’s at Hastings? Or is the uncertainty over the manager’s long-term future contributing? David Moyes believes his wait-and-see contract issue isn’t affecting his players.
Maybe not. But it certainly appears to be affecting some other influential figures at Goodison – 32,000 of them.

Everton FC legend Dixie Dean remembered
Mar 1 2013
William Ralph 'Dixie' Dean, one of the greatest centre-forwards to have ever played the game, passed away 33 years ago today. Dixie signed for Everton FC in 1925 from neighbours Tranmere Rovers, after scoring 27 goals in just 30 appearances for the Birkenhead side. Dixie's goal scoring exploits for Everton were quite simply phenomenal. He is the club's all time leading goal scorer with 383 goals in 433 games, and the 1927/1928 season managed to hit the back of the net 60 times, a record that still stands today and one that is never likely to be broken. Astonishingly, Dixie was involved in a motorcycle crash after his first season with the Blues in 1926 and suffered a broken jaw and a fractured skull. The doctors said he would never play again, but Dixie returned to action in just 15 weeks and unbelievably seemed to be a better goalscorer than before. Dixie's international appearances were mainly restricted to the home internationals tournaments; however he still managed to bang in 18 goals in just 16 appearances for England. Dean was the first person to wear the famous number '9' shirt and is forever immortalized at Goodison Park by a statue which was created in his honour. The statue of Dixie is transcribed with the words 'Footballer, Gentleman, Evertonian.'

Reading midfielder Hope Akpan looking forward to facing former club Everton
Akpan, 21, joined the Toffees as an eight-year-old
Mark Bryans
Friday 01 March 2013
Independent
Reading midfielder Hope Akpan is keen to treat tomorrow's Barclays Premier League meeting with Everton just like any other fixture but admits he will get a buzz from facing his old club.
Akpan, 21, joined the Toffees as an eight-year-old and remained at Goodison Park until a move to Crawley in 2011. He then penned a deal with Reading in the recent January transfer window and will go back to face his boyhood club this weekend. "Going back to where I started my career from a young age is going to be exciting, definitely, but I'm a Reading player now and I want to do well for Reading," he said. "At the end of the day it is just another game so I've got to go out with the same mentality as I do every time I play. "It is a massive game for Reading Football Club because, in the position we are, we need to get out of there and we need the points more than anything so I will put everything to one side and concentrate on getting a result for Reading." Reading lost 3-0 at home to fellow strugglers Wigan last weekend to fall back into the relegation places in the Premier League.
But Akpan claims the players are not letting the defeat play on their minds and believes a positive result at Everton is achievable. "After a result like we had on Saturday I think we just need to let it go," he said. "It was a bad day for the players and the club, we've moved on now and are ready for the game on Saturday. "Every game you go into you have to believe that you can get the points from the game. Everton are a strong team throughout the entire squad but we have to make sure we implement ourselves on them." Brian McDermott's Reading side picked up their first win of the season against Everton in November and a decent run of form after Christmas saw the Berkshire club push towards top-flight safety. The loss to Wigan has pulled Reading right back into the relegation battle but Akpan is enjoying playing under McDermott and is targeting a result on Saturday before a clash at home to Aston Villa the following week. "We built a good momentum a couple of weeks back and got some good results back-to-back," he said. "That is the way to pick up points so hopefully we can get a result here and then go into the Villa game. "He is a great guy, the gaffer. He gets his point across well and the things he has told me to do I have tried to implement them in the games so it has been really good." Akpan never played in a league game during his time at Everton, with a late substitute appearance in a Europa League clash with BATE Borisov his only first-team chance. He is happy with the way his top-flight career has started since moving from npower League One side Crawley. "There are a lot of differences. I'd like to think I've done well in making the step up," he said. "The Premier League is the best league and has the best players but it is a totally different style of football to the lower leagues and in some ways it is easier to adjust to that, but I'm taking nothing for granted and working hard to be the best I can. "I came in with the mentality that I was going to do the best I can every day in training and prove that I am a good player and hopefully when I get thrown in I will take my chance and so far, so good really."

Everton FC v Reading team news: Tim Howard a doubt for Toffees
Mar 1 2013
Everton FC have a slight doubt over goalkeeper Tim Howard for Saturday's Premier League clash at home to Reading. The American sustained a knock in Everton's midweek FA Cup fifth-round replay victory over Oldham and will be assessed late on. Everton FC forward Victor Anichebe is another who may not be fit enough to return, having not played since mid-February, but midfielder Marouane Fellaini will be back after sitting out the cup match with a minor injury.
Reading will be without suspended striker Pavel Pogrebnyak. The Russia forward was sent off during last weekend’s 3-0 home defeat against Wigan and will be missing for Reading's next three games.
Veteran striker Jason Roberts (hip) is still absent and admitted during the week he has no idea when he will be fit enough to return. Goalkeeper Alex McCarthy (shoulder) also misses out.
Everton FC: Howard, Jagielka, Distin, Heitinga, Baines, Coleman, Oviedo, Naismith, Hitzlsperger, Osman, Pienaar, Fellaini, Jelavic, Mucha, Neville, Anichebe, Vellios, Gibson, Mirallas, Duffy, Barkley, Stones.
Reading: Federici, Harte, Mariappa, Pearce, Kelly, McAnuff, McCleary, Leigertwood, Kebe, Blackman, Le Fondre, Akpan, Robson-Kanu, Hunt, Morrison, Taylor, Karacan, Shorey.

Royal Blue: Help Evertonian singer Jennifer Jewell perform with NeYo
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 2 2013
TRUE Blue singer Jennifer Jewell can often be found belting out her songs before a game at Goodison Park – but now she’s aiming to warm-up a different crowd at the Liverpool ECHO Arena next Friday. Jennifer is in the final five of a special competition organised by Radio City and Cash for Kids to support US r&b star Neyo at the Arena. If she made the cut she’d be singing her new track ‘Hurricane’ which was produced by West Derby-raised producer Mike Di Scala, who had a hit himself with popular dance track Pretty Green Eyes in 2003. Blues can help her while also raising money for needy children too. All you have to do is text Song04 1 to 70070. It costs £1 which goes to the charity. Voting closes on Wednesday, March 6 at 5pm and you can see the video for ‘Hurricane’ track now on YouTube.

Royal Blue: Everton FC need Phil Jagielka to drag defence into line
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 2 2013
PHIL JAGIELKA has rightly become an established England international and likely future Everton captain over the last 12 months. The 30-year-old has every chance of becoming as respected a figure at Goodison as Dave Watson or Derek Mountfield. But with Everton’s back-line falling deeper and deeper in the closing stages of recent games, and suffering the damaging consequences, David Moyes needs his influential defensive linchpin to stand-up as a leader more than ever. Jagielka must become a snarling sergeant major of the back four and drag his team-mates into shape while there is still time.

Royal Blue: Steven Naismith may have failed to light up Goodison so far but he deserves patience not derision
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 2 2013
LEON OSMAN, Tony Hibbert, Victor Anichebe and even for a while Marouane Fellaini. At one time in their Everton careers all of them have shouldered the burden of scapegoat status. Perhaps each would admit they haven’t always performed as well as they currently do. But all – aside perhaps from Anichebe whose overall redemption is continually undermined by injury – have gone on to win over the supporters. Yet as one former scapegoat becomes a cult hero, another must don the sack cloth and learn to live with the cat-calls and jeers whenever they make a mistake. The latest unfortunate is Steven Naismith. First a few admissions. The Scotland international has failed to impress since arriving on a free transfer from Rangers in the summer, and despite scoring three goals in just 14 starts he appears to be struggling in the Premier League. He has shown neither the pace nor flair which some hoped he would bring to David Moyes’ squad. Compare the 26-year-old’s displays to his dynamic goal-scoring exploits at Rangers and at times you could be talking about a different player. Undoubtedly the higher standard of defending south of the border has figured in that disparity but there are other factors behind his struggles. It seems unfair that Naismith should have to deal with such opprobrium while he tries to adapt as part of a small squad where fringe players are forced into being deployed as game-changers when they are not ready or incapable of fulfilling that remit. It’s true – the jury is out on whether he will ever make the grade.
But although patience is a rare quality among football fans, Naismith would benefit from some in the light of his continued recovery from his second knee cruciate ligament injury in October 2011. To fully recover from such an injury in the long-term a footballer needs to be playing 90 minutes regularly; rebuilding the robustness of his knee alongside confidence in his own body. Naismith has not been afforded that run of games, partly because of his own struggles to shine, but he could yet come good. In the meantime a man who is desperate to be a success on Merseyside deserves better than the derision he has been subjected to in some quarters.

Barry Horne: Goodison Park crowd can spur Everton FC on to FA Cup glory
by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
Mar 2 2013
IT was a relief to see Everton back to winning ways as they secured their passage to the FA Cup quarter finals at Goodison Park on Tuesday. There has been a bit of negativity around the club of late, so it was important to remind everyone that we are still in contention for silverware this season, which is more than can be said for a fair few clubs in the Premier League.
The quarter-final with Wigan next weekend represents a great chance to secure another visit to the new Wembley, and another great day out for supporters. If that isn’t cause for optimism, then I don’t know what is? Of course there is more to it than that, and fans have every right to worry about the future of the club, the manager and the squad. But in the meantime, their support could be vital. I’ve seen a fair bit of Wigan this season, and they’re a decent side when they click. They have pace, they can pass, and they can create chances. It will need one of those big Goodison atmospheres to give David Moyes and his side every chance of securing that last four place.
And with one of Millwall or Blackburn guaranteed a place in the semis, then there is a decent chance of a winnable semi final tie too. They say don’t look too far ahead, but there’s no reason not to dream. First of all, though, is the small matter of sorting out our league form. Our defeat to Reading earlier in the season defied belief, so revenge will be on the cards this weekend I hope.
It would be understandable if David and his squad subconsciously allowed their minds to wander to next week, but in all honesty this side should have enough to maintain their progress on both fronts.
The support of the Goodison crowd should help massively.

Why David Moyes will ask his Everton FC Walking Wounded to soldier on once again
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 2 2013
PATCHED-UP, battered, but ready for action - it’s so often the Everton FC way under David Moyes.
From Lee Carsley to Alan Stubbs, Tim Cahill to Leighton Baines, his players have been willing to put their bruised bodies on the line and bear the brunt of life at an ambitious club with limited personnel. So often Moyes has been able to call upon his key men despite them nursing injuries which would have had other Premier League prima donnas clinging to the treatment table.
This season has been no different, with Leighton Baines still managing to turn in a string of inspirational performances despite an ongoing ankle complaint, and ahead of today’s clash with Reading Moyes will once again ask key men to grin and bear it. Darron Gibson needs surgery on his persistent thigh problem, but will anchor the midfield for the second time in a week, and Moyes is grateful for the plucky perseverance of his men at a time in the season when he needs them to stand tall. “Bainesy has played a lot of the season with an ankle injury but that is how it is when you come here,” says the Scot. “We haven't got a big squad and you have to be able to do a couple of jobs.
“In a way, it breeds a spirit among the players. I don't let them roll about on the treatment table too long, they are out and about but sometimes it can catch you out.” Moyes has perhaps reluctantly had to field his strongest teams in both the FA Cup and Premier League, leaving his depleted resources severely stretched - but admits that when he tried to rotate it back-fired on him.
“In every game you are looking to play your best players and if you pick up injuries then so be it, you bring in someone else after that,” he says. “We have changed it a bit here and there but the one time that we did change it, we got knocked out of the cup by Leeds United.” Moyes hopes that enthusiasm to tough it out and become a trusted performer swiftly rubs off on Kevin Mirallas, a player with the ability to revive his side’s attacking fortunes in the season’s run-in. Summer signing Mirallas was a 20-goal top scorer for Greek outfit Olympiakos last season but netted what was just his fifth Everton goal against Oldham in their FA Cup fifth round replay on Tuesday. Of those, only one has come in the Premier League, although the winger has been hampered by a frustrating hamstring concern. Moyes last week called for the 25-year-old to rediscover his best form and hopes Tuesday's strike signifies the beginning of a fruitful end to the 2012/13 campaign.
“Hopefully it will give him a little bit of confidence,” he says. “He's not really got himself back to the fitness level we'd have hoped, so it was good to get him a bit longer in the game (on Tuesday).
“We need him to score goals. We brought him here to score goals and create goals and we've been missing that a little bit, so hopefully he can keep it up now and start getting a few more.
“His first two or three games back were a gentle introduction and we hope he kicks on now after the goal as he looked a bit sharper in his general play the other night. “He was a big goalscorer in Greece. “A lot of our players have settled in quickly - Jelavic did incredibly quickly - and although Kevin started the season well I think he is still coming to terms with the Premier League.
“I am hoping the last 10 or 12 games he can help us as it is his job to score goals with Jelavic, Victor Anichebe, everyone.” Tony Hibbert is another hardy soul who has routinely played through the pain barrier, but unfortunately his latest problem is proving more problematic. And Moyes admits his veteran right-back could now miss the remainder of the season. Moyes won’t rule out the 32-year-old appearing again this term but confessed an extended absence remains a distinct possibility.
Hibbert has been missing for the Blues since undergoing calf surgery in December.
Initially it was thought he would be back within two to three months but that now looks an optimistic target. “I’m not sure if we will (see Tony this season),” says Moyes. “He might be back before the end with a bit of luck.” The Blues boss also revealed Marouane Fellaini, Tim Howard and Victor Anichebe will need late fitness checks ahead of Saturday’s visit of Reading, but he expects the influential Belgian talisman to make it. “Marouane has a chance to be fit,” he says. “But I have a doubt about Tim after he suffered a knock in midweek so I will assess that one.”
Howard will no doubt do everything to recover from the painful back problem he suffered during Oldham’s aerial bombardment on Tuesday, but should he fail to feature against the Berkshire side, he will miss out on breaking Neville Southall’s consecutive league appearances record by just three games. The former Manchester United keeper has so far played in 210 successive Premier League matches for the Blues.

Darron Gibson can play influential part in Everton FC’s season despite injury concern, says David Moyes
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 2 2013
DARRON GIBSON can still play an influential part in Everton FC’s season despite being hampered by an ongoing injury, says David Moyes. The Republic of Ireland international midfielder is nursing a thigh complaint which requires surgery in the summer, but is able to soldier on until May.
And although the problem – which has already caused him to miss 17 games so far this season – is limiting his ability to shine, Moyes still believes the Manchester United man has plenty to offer.
He said: “I think we are in control of Gibson but there is a danger. We thought he might have needed an operation earlier in the year but the medical staff have managed it well. We think we can get away with it just now, but he is going to need it sometime. “It could come at any time. I think he can offer more but maybe it is just the injury holding him back a bit. “I don’t question his character because he had come from a club that instils that in you. We are not going to let him roll over so we can tickle his belly. “He is going to have to get up and get on with it and he has done that to be fair to him. “The injury has tempered him from shooting and taking corners. That is a big part of his game and at times I have considered not using him but he has done ok. He can get better and I keep trying to prod at him.” Moyes said earlier in the season that he felt he had to ‘crack the whip’ more with the former Manchester United man, but he has been satisfied with his response so far.
“I meant mentally prod at him to get a bit more devilment in him in the things that he does,” he added. “But I can’t prod at him too much while he is carrying this injury. He has a wee bit of calcification at the top of his thigh.” Tim Howard is the biggest injury worry for Everton today - with a back problem meaning Jan Mucha could be in line for his Premier League debut against Reading.

Nikica Jelavic must re-find his scoring form himself says Everton FC boss David Moyes
Mar 2 2013
Everton manager David Moyes is not one for the "cuddly" approach and has told mis-firing striker Nikica Jelavic it is up to him to find the solution which will end his goal drought. The Croatia international has not scored in his past nine appearances and his only strike since December 9 came against League Two Cheltenham in the FA Cup. Such lack of form contrasts sharply with almost 12 months ago when the 27-year-old enjoyed a run of 11 goals in 14 matches to the end of the campaign which had many hailing him as the buy of the January window at a cost of just £5.5million.
It has cost him his place in the starting line-up recently and while Moyes accepts the player’s confidence has been dealt a blow he is backing the forward to bounce back. "I am not that cuddly a fella or one for putting my arm around you all the time but every manager has their own style," Moyes said. "I don’t know if Jela is the sort of boy who would want me to do that any way.
"Any forward who has played the game and been through barren spells will tell you they practise more or don’t do any in the hope it comes back without it. "I think it is every man for themselves in that. "We would like him to get his goals and lift his performances and if we get that it will be a big help to the team. "The team need him. I said last week a lot of what we do this year will be determined by how well Jela scores between now and the end of the season. "It is noticeable (his lack of goals) because everyone talks about it. "We tend to be as honest as we can and not hide away from anything and at the moment undoubtedly we need Jela to find a way of scoring some goals. "He needs to get a goal but I don’t know if one goal will make everything right.
"If I saw him getting four goals in four games then I would start to think ’This is what we want’.
"You have to find a way of making that happen again but we could do with him standing up and getting us some goals now." Of the top eight only West Brom have scored fewer goals than sixth-placed Everton. Moyes knows it has lost them ground on the race for Champions League qualification as their failings up front have led to concessions at the other end proving more costly - as their 12 draws this season highlight. "We are disappointed we have not scored more goals - if we had maybe the boys at the back would not have had so much to deal with late on," said the Scot.
"Our play in between the boxes has been very good but we need to do a little bit better in the boxes because, to be fair, that is where it really matters." Jelavic’s goal drought has been compounded by the unavailability of forward Kevin Mirallas, who began his first season at the club brightly but has been hampered by a recurring hamstring injury. The Belgian scored in the midweek FA Cup fifth-round replay victory over Oldham and Moyes hopes that may help re-ignite his season.
"His first two or three games back were a gentle introduction and we hope he kicks on now after the goal as he looked a bit sharper in his general play the other night," added the Toffees boss.
"We are hoping we can get a bit more from Kevin because he was a big goalscorer in Greece (having signed from Olympiacos in the summer). "A lot of our players have settled in quickly - Jelavic did incredibly quickly - and although Kevin started the season well I think he is still coming to terms with the Premier League. "I am hoping the last 10 or 12 games he can help us as it is his job to score goals with Jelavic, Victor Anichebe, everyone."

Final Whistle Report: Everton FC 3 Reading 1
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 2 2013
EVERTON bolstered their hopes of European qualification with an assured 3-1 victory over Reading at Goodison Park. David Moyes’ side had too much attacking prowess for the relegation-haunted Berkshire outfit, as they secured back to back wins in the space of four days following their progress into the FA Cup quarter finals on Tuesday. Neither side had their first choice goalkeeper available so it was a contest which was always likely to feature goals, and Everton took their chances in timely fashion to close the gap on fifth-placed Arsenal to two points. The Blues started brightly; with Steven Pienaar’s cross creating a prime opportunity for Nikica Jelavic to score in the opening seconds but the Croatian skewed his header badly wide. Reading were still half asleep when Everton went close again; this time Jelavic turned provider and the South African scooped a close range effort over the bar. Everton’s momentum wasn’t helped when Adam Le Fondre’s clumsy late challenge on Phil Jagielka meant the Blues captain could not carry on, and had to be replaced by John Heitinga.
The hosts lost their early momentum for a while then, and Brian McDermott’s side almost took advantage when Mikele Leigertwood flicked on Ian Harte’s corner and Le Fondre seized on the ball to strike the post with a venomous dive. If it was something of a let-off for Moyes’ side, at least they responded in the correct manner, cranking up the pressure and carving out a string of chances.
However, as had often been the case this season, they failed to convert any of them. Jelavic had his effort on goal well saved by Stuart Taylor, Pienaar wastefully shot wide when well positioned and then Kevin Mirallas forced an excellent stop from Taylor with his ambitious attempt from outside the box. In the dug-out, Moyes shook his head ruefully. He has seen his side pay for such wastefulness too many times this term. Fortunately Marouane Fellaini hadn’t read the script. The Belgian swopped passes with Seamus Coleman who was pushing forward menacingly and the Republic of Ireland international’s cross was perfect allowing Fellaini to leap easily above Jobi McAnuff and head home at the far post. Everton’s top scorer almost doubled his side’s lead with a thunderous strike from an acute angle just before the break which Taylor was forced to tip over the angle of the bar.
They maintained that pressure after the break, with Jelavic again probing. It seemed like his presence had earned a penalty hen Stephen Kelly shoved him over in a goal-mouth scramble, but Anthony Taylor somehow decided otherwise. Mirallas wasted a useful chance in the aftermath, but the Blues were looking likely to build on their lead as Reading dropped deep. Fellaini headed yet another chance over the bar after smart work from Pienaar, and Everton’s midfield dominance was total. Pienaar might not have convinced with his gilt-edged chance in the first half, but he more than made amends on 59 minutes. The midfielder picked up the ball 45 yards from goal and burst forward. The nearest Reading player Harte appeared to turn his back, and the Toffees schemer unleashed an unstoppable shot which scorched past Taylor. The visitors were bedraggled and demoralised, and pretty soon Everton rubbed it in. The ball broke to Pienaar off Kelly and the playmaker slipped a defence-splitting pass to Mirallas who confidently beat Taylor at the near post.
On his first Premier League start Jan Mucha had largely been untroubled, but Tim Howard’s deputy played his part, making a fine reflex save from McAnuff as Reading attempted to hit back.
With 15 minutes remaining Moyes decided to further up the ante, replacing Osman with Victor Anichebe. It had been a near perfect afternoon, but there was to be no clean sheet to make it complete. Harte was allowed too much time to cross from the edge of the area and substitute Hal Robson-Kanu rose practically unchallenged to score with a powerful header. It was disappointing, but not enough to marr an otherwise assured performance. Anichebe went close after some nifty show-boating from Mirallas set him loose on goal, and Jelavic continued to take up dangerous positions in the area. Everton continued to probe but were equally content to see out the remaining minutes secure in the knowledge that their much-needed surge in momentum may have arrived just in time.
EVERTON: (4-4-1-1) Mucha, Coleman, Jagielka (Capt) (Heitinga, 5), Distin, Baines, Gibson, Osman (Anichebe, 74) Mirallas, Pienaar (Hitzlsperger, 81), Fellaini, Jelavic.
Subs not used: Springthorpe, Oviedo, Naismith, Neville.
Bookings: Coleman
Goals: Fellaini (42) Pienaar (59) Mirallas (67)
READING: (4-4-2) Taylor, Pearce, Mariappa, Leigertwood, Hunt (Blackman, 75) McAnuff (Capt), Kebe (Robson-Kanu, 19) Harte, Kelly, Akpan, Le Fondre.
Subs not used: Henly, Gunter, Karacan, McGleary, Morrison.
Bookings: LeFondre
Goals: Robon-Kanu (84)
Ref: Anthony Taylor
Attendance: 35,244

Everton 3 - Reading 1: Everton enjoy home rule as Moyes chases double
By: Gary Carter
Sun, March 3, 2013 Daily Sunday Express
Striker Nikica Jelavic may have extended his goalless drought to 10 matches , but the supporting cast did more than enough yesterday.Marouane Fellaini rose above Reading’s defenders to head home his 12th goal of the season and set David Moyes’ men on the road to victory.But most pleasing of all would have been the sight of Steven Pienaar and Kevin Mirallas also finding the net.Seamus Coleman skinned Jobi McAnuff on the right and Stephen Kelly and Alex Pearce were no match for man-mountain Fellaini’s charge on 42 minutes.Pienaar’s stunning left-foot drive into the top corner on the hour settled any nerves as Reading threatened in patches.The South African then turned provider with a fine pass for Mirallas, who slotted in the third as he scored for the second successive match.With another home league win in the bag – it is now one Goodison Park loss in 18 – Everton can concentrate on the FA Cup quarter-final against Wigan next week. And even Jelavic’s barren spell can be forgiven. Yesterday was certainly a case of bad luck rather than bad play.Moyes insists he can juggle Everton’s dual ambition by earning a European spot from a league position as well as going for the FA Cup.However, ever the pragmatist, he was adamant that he would place more on qualifying for the Europa League through where Everton finish in the table rather than a Cup final win.He wrote in his programme notes: “For me it’s always been more important to be a good league side than a good cup side. Over a Premier League season you have to earn what you get an tend to finish where you deserve.” Remarkably, this turned into the battle of the reserve goalkeepers as Tim Howard was ruled out for Everton because of a back injury.It was the first time the American had not started a Premier League match since September 2007. An astonishing 210 games – just two short of Neville Southall’s club record.Jan Mucha came in for his league debut, while Stuart Taylor was in goal for Reading – his first start in more than three years, back when he was at Manchester City.Injuries kept on coming as Phil Jagielka was forced off less than five minutes after a crunching challenge from Adam Le Fondre, and Jimmy Kebe pulled up as he tried to take the ball around Mucha.I'm not happy with the challenge and I’m one who doesn’t mind challenges. Everton manager David MoyesMoyes was furious about the challenge that left Jagielka with a badly-gashed ankle that is almost certain to keep him out of the cup tie against Wigan.“It’s a bad, bad gash,” said Moyes. ‘‘I'm not happy with the challenge and I’m one who doesn’t mind challenges. I’m just disappointed we are losing a centre-half because of it.’’Reading boss Brian McDermott claimed he had not seen the Le Fondre incident and said: “Adam is a very honest. I don’t know what they’re saying, but Adam is not a player that would do anybody.”McDermott’s side had started brightly as Mucha was first into action by claiming Ian Harte’s goal-bound free-kick.Then Le Fondre smashed the post on 19 minutes when Harte’s corner was not cleared.Le Fondre and Noel Hunt were a pair of pests up front, but Everton eventually cranked-up the pressure and Reading eventually cracked.Fellaini’s opener allowed Everton to cut loose and Taylor had no chance when Pienaar cut in from the right and lashed a shot into his top corner.Even before Mirallas’ goal, Fellaini and Jelavic conspired to spurn a golden chance while the eventual goalscorer saw a shot drift wide.It was game over but Reading kept going, and Hal Robson-Kanu was given too much space to head home Harte’s cross from close range.However, the Royals are in dire danger of going straight back down. The chances of points from their next two away trips look slim – they head to Manchester United and Arsenal.

EVERTON 3 - READING 1: EURO-PIEN ADVENTURE
3rd March 2013 Daily Star
By Gary Carter
DAVID MOYES insists Everton can fight for Europe on two fronts – so it appears they have found their shooting boots at the right time.Recognised striker Nikica Jelavic may have extended his goalless drought to ten games but the supporting cast did more than enough yesterday.With another home league win in the bag – it is now one Goodison Park loss in 18 – Everton can concentrate on reaching the FA Cup semi-final.Moyes insists he can juggle the Toffees’ dual ambition by earning a European spot from a league position as well as going for the cup he craves.Remarkably, this turned into the battle of the reserve goalkeepers as Tim Howard was ruled out for Everton because of a back injury. That was the first time the American had not started a Premier League match since September 2007. An astonishing 210 games – just two short of Neville Southall’s club record.Jan Mucha came in for his league debut while Stuart Taylor was in goal for Reading, his first start in more than three years.Injuries kept on coming as Phil Jagielka was forced off less than five minutes in, after a crunching challenge from Adam Le Fondre. Jimmy Kebe also pulled up as he tried to take the ball around Mucha.Marouane Fellaini rose above Reading’s defenders to head home his 12th goal of the season and set Moyes’ men on the road to victory.Seamus Coleman skinned Jobi McAnuff on the right and Stephen Kelly and Alex Pearce were no match for man-mountain Fellaini’s charging header.Then Pienaar’s stunning left-foot drive into the top corner just before the hour settled any nerves.The South African then turned provider with a fine pass for Mirallas, who clinically slotted in the third as he scored for the second successive match.Everton boss Moyes said: “Marouane Fellaini did well. He has lots of good attributes. He can get better but has a lot going for him and can be a real handful. We played well but it took us a while to settle after the injury. Reading were always a threat but that’s the way the Premier League is.“Pienaar’s goal was a great goal and I’m pleased for him as one of the things that gets levelled at him is that he doesn’t quite score enough.“But he’s beginning to get a few goals and he’s an important player for us.”Reading kept going and Hal Robson-Kanu was given too much space to head home Harte’s cross.Reading boss Brian McDermott said: “They’ve got major quality but had Adam Le Fondre’s shot that hit the post gone in, it would have been a different game.“But they scored first and what can you say about the second goal?”

McDermott insists Reading can still beat the drop despite defeat at Everton
By Andy Hampson, Press Association
3rd March 2013, Daily Mail
Reading boss Brian McDermott felt his side showed enough battling quality in defeat at Everton to believe they can escape relegation. The Royals slumped to a 3-1 loss at Goodison Park to remain in the bottom three of the Barclays Premier League.But the visitors hit the woodwork with the score still 0-0 and had other opportunities before Marouane Fellaini struck after 43 minutes and Everton then eased away with further Steven Pienaar and Kevin Mirallas strikes. Reading battled on and grabbed a late equaliser through substitute Hal Robson-Kanu.McDermott said: 'There was nothing in the first half but they have got major quality. 'When Adam Le Fondre had a shot and hit the post - if that goes in maybe it's different. 'It was a great goal they scored, the first goal and the second goal, what can you say? 'But we played some great football after that and that gives me real hope going forward.'McDermott's side have 10 games remaining to save their top-flight status and the manager hopes they can repeat the late-season charge which earned them promotion last term. He said: 'We had to make up about 14 points last year and we did that. 'We have to make up one or two at this time - we think we can do that. 'We have to keep doing our stuff, keep the spirit going and the group together. 'We have finished the last three seasons really strongly. If we can do the same this season I'll take that. 'It would give us a real chance. There is not a lot in the league at all really.'McDermott also felt his side should have had a penalty in the second half after Sylvain Distin appeared to handle an Adam Le Fondre cross. He said: 'He put his hand up and nearly caught it, but he didn't (catch it) so he (the ref) didn't see it. It was a penalty I thought.' Goalkeeper Adam Federici missed the trip to Merseyside after being hurt in training while winger Jimmy Kebe pulled up in the first half.McDermott said: 'Adam went down in a training session yesterday, did his ankle. 'It's not fractured and we're hoping it's just sprained. We'll wait and see. 'Jimmy came off with a groin strain and we don't know how bad that is yet.' Victory kept Everton in the picture for Champions League qualification. Manager David Moyes was pleased with the performance but felt it took time to build momentum after losing defender Phil Jagielka to injury in the opening minutes.Moyes said: 'We played well. I thought we started well but the injury rocked us badly and it took us a wee while to settle after that.'Reading were always a threat, had a few chances, hit the bar. 'That is the way the Premier League is, whoever you play, the games are tight.'Jagielka could face a spell out after suffering a 'bad, bad gash' in a challenge by Le Fondre.Moyes felt unable to comment much on another incident involving Reading's Noel Hunt and Jagielka's replacement John Heitinga. Moyes said: 'I haven't seen that one but I will have a look at it. I was surprised the referee didn't stop play. 'If he didn't see it you might hope one of his two officials might have spotted it.'Moyes was pleased with the performance of Fellaini on his return from a knee injury and was happy to see Pienaar among the goals after a superb long-range strike from the South African. The Scot said: 'Fellaini came back and was an influence. Seamus Coleman put over a brilliant cross for him for his goal and had put in a couple of good crosses prior to that. 'He has got a lot of really good attributes. He can get better but he has got a lot going for him. On his day he can be a handful. 'It was a great goal from Steven. I am pleased for him, he is an important player. 'One of the things that can be labelled at him is that he probably doesn't score enough. 'He is beginning to get a few goals and today's was right out of the sweet spot and that was good.'

Everton defender Jagielka out for 'a couple of weeks' with badly gashed ankle
By Andy Hampson, Press Association
3rd March 2013, Daily Mail
Everton defender Phil Jagielka faces two weeks out witha badly gashed ankle, manager David Moyes confirmed.The England international was injured in a challenge from Adam Le Fondre in the opening minutes of Everton's 3-1 win over Reading on Saturday at Goodison Park. Jagielka will certainly hope to be fit to take his place in England's squad for their next World Cup qualifiers, against San Marino on March 22 and Montenegro four days later.When pressed, Moyes later said Jagielka could be out for 'a couple of weeks, maybe'.Le Fondre apologised after the game, saying via Twitter: 'Fans were brilliant today! Shame about result! Everton were class! Thoughts with jags never meant to catch him,caught him late an apologised.'Jagielka had to be immediately replaced, and Moyes said: 'I genuinely haven't seen it again but I thought on the pitch it didn't look good. 'Jagielka knew about it and it is a bad one. He will have surgery tonight to stitch up his ankle. 'It is a bad one because he is a key player for us.'Moyes said he did not know how long Jagielka would be out but the 30-year-old must now be doubtful for next week's FA Cup quarter-final against Wigan. The incident also reminded Moyes of some of the treatment goalkeeper Tim Howard received in the two previous cup matches against Oldham.Howard was unable to face Reading after suffering a knock in the fifth-round replay win over over the League One side on Tuesday and was replaced by back-up Jan Mucha. 'I'm not happy with the challenges on the goalkeeper in the last two games that have put him out and I am not happy with the challenge today that puts Phil Jagielka out,' said the manager. 'I'm not one who minds challenges. I like a bit of that, if that's what it is. 'I don't mind robust challenges but not one that puts out arguably one of my best players.' Howard's absence ended the American's run of 210 consecutive Premier League appearances. Moyes said: 'I thought Jan did very well but it came about because the goalkeeper wasn't protected in the first game against Oldham and they felt it was right they could do that again in the second game. 'In the end the goalkeeper has been injured because of decisions which should have been deemed free-kicks long before.'Reading manager Brian McDermott also said he did not get a clear view of Le Fondre's challenge on Jagielka but defended his player. McDermott said: 'Adam Le Fondre is not that type of player, no way. He is a very honest type of player. 'I don't know what they are saying but there is no way Adam Le Fondre is a player that would `do` anybody.'

David Moyes lifted by the return to form and fitness of Kevin Mirallas
Liverpool Echo
Mar 4 2013
DAVID MOYES believes that Kevin Mirallas is poised to recapture the form which marked him out as one of the Premier League's brightest new discoveries earlier in the season. The Belgian forward earned rave notices for his first few performances in Royal Blue, before a niggling hamstring problem interrupted his progress. But, now fully fit, Mirallas celebrated his second goal in a week against Reading on Saturday and manager Moyes said: “The Kevin Mirallas who plays today is a threat and the one who plays today has got a goal in him. And we hope that continues. “He needed to get his fitness back – and he looked today like someone who could score goals and he looked like someone who could make goals. “And in recent games where we've played him I don't think he's looked like that. But we've had to give him some time to get back playing. “He'll feel better himself. He looked as if he could go either way when he was getting at people and he looked like he had a bit about him. I think he'll have gained a bit of confidence from his goal in midweek. “I thought he finished his goal today brilliantly well. He shaped to put it one side and finished it the other and I think that will give him a lot of confidence. “He'll give the other players a boost, too, because we've needed goals from him and Jela and in the past couple of games Kevin's come in and got us a couple of goals, which is a boost to the players because they love to see players scoring goals as well. “He's got a lot of really good attributes and he can get better.” Moyes was also delighted with the contribution of Steven Pienaar on the opposite flank. So often the team's creative fulcrum, the South African schemer slipped the pass through for Mirallas' goal, but also scored a stunning effort of his own.
“Pienaar's the one who can make us a lot of chances for a lot of our players,” said Moyes.
“I think he's found it a bit difficult at times. People have been very tight on him. And I thought he did a lot of good work today. Because of that it helped Seamus Coleman play better too. “He scored a great goal. A brilliant goal. I'm really pleased because he's an important player and I think the one thing which is sometimes levelled at him is that he doesn't score enough to go with his talent but he's beginning to get us a few goals now and today's was right out of the sweet spot.” Moyes also had words of sympathy for Nikica Jelavic, whose Premier League goal drought extended to 12 matches with another blank. “I thought Jela did quite well today as well and was unfortunate not to get his name on the scoresheet,” he added. “He looked closer to scoring. The keeper made a couple of half decent saves from him and we could have scored more. Having said that Reading had one or two moments themselves. “In other games I think we've had chances not dissimilar to today and not scored them. And in the end maybe been punished. I didn't think we defended the corner kicks well today in the first half but in the second half I think we defended them really well. And we had to. “The difference was that we took some of our chances, which we hadn't done, and we defended better. “We played well. We started quite well but the injury rocked us quite badly and it took us a wee while to settle after that. “We got the goal then made a few chances, but Reading were always a threat.”

David Moyes calls for more protection of his players from referees
Liverpool Echo
Mar 4 2013
DAVID MOYES has called for greater protection for his players, after Phil Jagielka spent Saturday night in hospital having his ankle stitched back together and Tim Howard missed his first Premier League match since September 2007 after a buffetting from Oldham in midweek. Goalkeeper Howard was just two games short of matching Neville Southall's club record for consecutive League appearances (212) but had to sit out the match after landing painfully on his back following a challenge which resulted in a yellow card in midweek. Reading striker Adam le Fondre was also booked for the challenge which led to Jagielka limping off just five minutes into Saturday's match and Moyes said: “I don't want to be too critical of the referees but I'm certainly going to stand up and protect my players and I don't think they've been protected correctly in a couple of games recently. “Jags is bad. He's going to get surgery on his ankle to repair the cut. It's a bad, bad gash.
“I'm not happy with the challenge which put him out of the game and I'm not happy with the challenge made on our goalkeeper in the past two games which puts him out of the game.
And I'm one who doesn't mind challenges. I'm quite happy for a bit of that if that's what it is.
“I don't mind robust challenges, but one which puts out arguably one of my best players..., well, he'll be out for a few weeks. “The bone was showing and it's an area where you kick the ball and it's a real blow for us.” Jagielka was cruelly denied an FA Cup final appearance in 2009 by injury and looks almost certain to miss Saturday's quarter-final against Wigan, victory in which would take the Blues back to Wembley.

Everton FC 3 Reading 1: Blues show they are ready for the run-in
Liverpool Echo
Mar 4 2013
THE Grand National trophy was displayed at Goodison beforehand and 90 minutes later Everton had suggested they may not fall at the final hurdle after all. Their top four hopes have largely been written off, and there are others below them in the Premier League table who covet the Europa League qualifying spots, but against Reading David Moyes’ men delivered a timely reminder of why they were tipped as dark horses for great things this season in the first place. The focus recently has been on the damaging nature of their leaky defence, but perhaps Everton’s biggest problem this season has been a failure to take their chances in games. It’s no accident that Arsenal and Spurs above them have players on 18 goals, Theo Walcott, and 19, Gareth Bale, while Marouane Fellaini is the Blues top scorer with 11. At times on Saturday it looked like being the familiar story of missed opportunities to kill the game off in the first half, but then Fellaini opened the floodgates and Everton finally showed their too often lacking ruthless streak. There were moments in their attacking play that recalled the heady optimism of last autumn when Aston Villa and Swansea were vanquished so stylishly. That was before the inevitable rash of injuries bit into a small squad. Moyes has admitted how much his side has missed one of those casualties, Kevin Mirallas, and with the Belgian back in full flow and ably supported in his attacking endeavours down the right by Seamus Coleman Everton are an infinitely more compelling prospect. And although he once again drew a blank there were flickering signs in Nikica Jelavic’s endeavour and ability to find dangerous space inside the opposition’s penalty area that he may yet spring to life. His struggles this term have already had a damaging impact, but if he can rediscover his golden touch it could well galvanise Everton’s run-in. They certainly ensured morale was lifted in Goodison, which has been a nervy place recently despite back to back wins. But typically there was a cloud looming near Everton’s silver-lining. The likely loss of Phil Jagielka for next Saturday’s FA Cup quarter final against a Wigan side chastened by Liverpool is a severe blow. The Blues stand-in skipper played no further part after a clumsy challenge from Adam Le Fondre which left him writhing in agony and requiring stitches in his ankle. That set-back came after just five minutes of Saturday’s contest, and it undermined an otherwise bright start by the Blues. Steven Pienaar’s cross had created a prime opportunity for Jelavic to score in the opening seconds but the Croatian skewed his header badly wide.
Then Jelavic turned provider for the South African who scooped a close range effort over the bar.
Reading almost took advantage of a dip in tempo by the hosts when Mikele Leigertwood flicked on Ian Harte’s corner and Le Fondre seized on the ball to strike the post with a venomous drive.
If it was something of a let-off for Moyes’ side, at least they responded in the correct manner, cranking up the pressure and carving out a string of chances. When they failed to convert any of them, a worryingly familiar pattern seemed about to emerge. Jelavic had another effort on goal well saved by Stuart Taylor, Pienaar wastefully shot wide when well positioned and then Mirallas forced an excellent stop from Taylor with his ambitious attempt from outside the box. In the dug-out, Moyes shook his head ruefully. He has seen his side pay for such wastefulness too many times this term. Fortunately Marouane Fellaini hadn’t read the script. He swopped passes with Seamus Coleman who was pushing forward menacingly and the Republic of Ireland international’s perfect cross allowed Fellaini to leap easily above Jobi McAnuff and head home at the far post.
They maintained that pressure after the break, with Jelavic again probing. It seemed like his presence had earned a penalty when Stephen Kelly shoved him over in a goal-mouth scramble, but Anthony Taylor somehow decided otherwise. Everton’s midfield dominance was total by now, and their frustrated opponents reverted to overly physical attempts to stem the flow of royal blue shirts.
Pienaar might not have convinced with his pea-roller attempt in the first half, but he more than made amends just before the hour. He picked up the ball 45 yards from goal, burst forward and unleashed an unstoppable shot which scorched past Taylor. The visitors were bedraggled and demoralised, and pretty soon Everton rubbed it in. The ball broke to livewire Pienaar off Kelly and the playmaker slipped a defence-splitting pass to Mirallas who confidently beat Taylor at the near post. So far, so good. On his first Premier League start Jan Mucha had largely been untroubled, but Tim Howard’s deputy played his part, making a fine reflex save from McAnuff as Reading attempted to hit back. It was just a shame that there was to be no clean sheet for the Blues yet again. They haven’t won and recorded a complete shut-out since September 22 when they beat Swansea 3-0.
Harte slipped his marker too easily, was allowed too much time to cross from the edge of the area and substitute Hal Robson-Kanu rose practically unchallenged to score with a powerful header. It was disappointing, but not enough to mar an otherwise assured performance. Everton continued to probe sporadically but by then were content to see out the remaining minutes secure in the knowledge that their much-needed surge in momentum may have arrived just in time.
With three more Goodison games on the agenda, let’s hope home comforts persist.

Kevin Mirallas goals vital now says Everton FC’s Darron Gibson
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 4 2013
KEVIN MIRALLAS’ flair and goals can play an influential part in Everton FC’s bid for Europe, insists Darron Gibson. The Belgian scored the third of a 3-1 Goodison victory over Reading on Saturday, and was in impressive form as David Moyes’ men bolstered their European ambitions in the second of a sequence of five home games. Gibson admitted Mirallas, a £6m summer signing from Olympiakos, has found it difficult while beset with injury woes this season, but believes the forward is ready to show his worth over the next two and a half months of the campaign. He said: “Everyone knows Kevin is a good player. It’s been difficult for him but he’s starting to find his feet now.
“If he can keep playing that well for the remaining games of the season he’ll play a big part. He’s a flair player. He likes to get on the ball, dribble and shoot.” Gibson was impressed with his side’s attacking play, although he was disappointed they failed to record a rare clean sheet.
“It’s been damaging the amount of goals we’ve conceded, but this week the attacking side overpowered the defensive side,” said the midfielder. “It was frustrating not to get the clean sheet but we created a lot of chances and could have had a lot more goals. If you look at the game as a whole I think our attacking was a lot better than it has been lately. “It was a great result and we needed it after the last few results. We’ve conceded too many goals and it was unfortunate to concede another one, but I thought we deserved the win and played well.” Gibson was one of many bright performers in blue as relegation-haunted Reading were brushed aside, and he completed 90 minutes despite continuing to nurse a problem with his thigh that his manager believes is limiting his performances. However the Republic of Ireland international hopes the problem might not require surgery in the summer, as previously feared. He added: “Fingers crossed it won’t need an operation in the summer. I don’t really want to talk about it too much. I’m just managing it at the minute. I’m happy enough. I’m comfortable playing.”

Everton FC lifted by form of Kevin Mirallas says David Moyes
Mar 4 2013
DAVID MOYES believes that Kevin Mirallas is poised to recapture the form which marked him out as one of the Premier League's brightest new discoveries earlier in the season. The Belgian forward earned rave notices for his first few performances in Royal Blue, before a niggling hamstring problem interrupted his progress. But, now fully fit, Mirallas celebrated his second goal in a week against Reading on Saturday and manager Moyes said: “The Kevin Mirallas who plays today is a threat and the one who plays today has got a goal in him. And we hope that continues. “He needed to get his fitness back – and he looked today like someone who could score goals and he looked like someone who could make goals. “And in recent games where we've played him I don't think he's looked like that. But we've had to give him some time to get back playing. “He'll feel better himself. He looked as if he could go either way when he was getting at people and he looked like he had a bit about him. I think he'll have gained a bit of confidence from his goal in midweek. “I thought he finished his goal today brilliantly well. He shaped to put it one side and finished it the other and I think that will give him a lot of confidence. “He'll give the other players a boost, too, because we've needed goals from him and Jela and in the past couple of games Kevin's come in and got us a couple of goals, which is a boost to the players because they love to see players scoring goals as well. “He's got a lot of really good attributes and he can get better.” Moyes was also delighted with the contribution of Steven Pienaar on the opposite flank. So often the team's creative fulcrum, the South African schemer slipped the pass through for Mirallas' goal, but also scored a stunning effort of his own.
“Pienaar's the one who can make us a lot of chances for a lot of our players,” said Moyes.
“I think he's found it a bit difficult at times. People have been very tight on him. And I thought he did a lot of good work today. Because of that it helped Seamus Coleman play better too. “He scored a great goal. A brilliant goal. I'm really pleased because he's an important player and I think the one thing which is sometimes levelled at him is that he doesn't score enough to go with his talent but he's beginning to get us a few goals now and today's was right out of the sweet spot.” Moyes also had words of sympathy for Nikica Jelavic, whose Premier League goal drought extended to 12 matches with another blank. “I thought Jela did quite well today as well and was unfortunate not to get his name on the scoresheet,” he added. “He looked closer to scoring. The keeper made a couple of half decent saves from him and we could have scored more. Having said that Reading had one or two moments themselves. “In other games I think we've had chances not dissimilar to today and not scored them. And in the end maybe been punished. I didn't think we defended the corner kicks well today in the first half but in the second half I think we defended them really well. And we had to. “The difference was that we took some of our chances, which we hadn't done, and we defended better. “We played well. We started quite well but the injury rocked us quite badly and it took us a wee while to settle after that. “We got the goal then made a few chances, but Reading were always a threat.

Everton FC 3 Reading 1: EFC still eyeing Europe after assured victory
Liverpool Echo
Mar 4 2013
EVERTON FC bolstered their hopes of European qualification this season with an assured 3-1 victory over Reading at Goodison Park. David Moyes’ side had too much attacking prowess for the relegation-haunted Berkshire outfit, as they secured back to back wins in the space of four days following their progress into the FA Cup quarter finals on Tuesday. Neither side had their first choice goalkeeper available so it was a contest which was always likely to feature goals, and Everton took their chances in timely fashion to close the gap on fifth-placed Arsenal to two points. The Blues started brightly; with Steven Pienaar’s cross creating a prime opportunity for Nikica Jelavic to score in the opening seconds but the Croatian skewed his header badly wide. Reading were still half asleep when Everton went close again; this time Jelavic turned provider and the South African scooped a close range effort over the bar. Everton’s momentum wasn’t helped when Adam Le Fondre’s clumsy late challenge on Phil Jagielka meant the Blues captain could not carry on, and had to be replaced by John Heitinga. The hosts lost their early momentum for a while then, and Brian McDermott’s side almost took advantage when Mikele Leigertwood flicked on Ian Harte’s corner and Le Fondre seized on the ball to strike the post with a venomous dive. If it was something of a let-off for Moyes’ side, at least they responded in the correct manner, cranking up the pressure and carving out a string of chances. However, as had often been the case this season, they failed to convert any of them. Jelavic had his effort on goal well saved by Stuart Taylor, Pienaar wastefully shot wide when well positioned and then Kevin Mirallas forced an excellent stop from Taylor with his ambitious attempt from outside the box. In the dug-out, Moyes shook his head ruefully. He has seen his side pay for such wastefulness too many times this term. Fortunately Marouane Fellaini hadn’t read the script. The Belgian swopped passes with Seamus Coleman who was pushing forward menacingly and the Republic of Ireland international’s cross was perfect allowing Fellaini to leap easily above Jobi McAnuff and head home at the far post. Everton’s top scorer almost doubled his side’s lead with a thunderous strike from an acute angle just before the break which Taylor was forced to tip over the angle of the bar. They maintained that pressure after the break, with Jelavic again probing. It seemed like his presence had earned a penalty hen Stephen Kelly shoved him over in a goal-mouth scramble, but Anthony Taylor somehow decided otherwise. Mirallas wasted a useful chance in the aftermath, but the Blues were looking likely to build on their lead as Reading dropped deep.
Fellaini headed yet another chance over the bar after smart work from Pienaar, and Everton’s midfield dominance was total. Pienaar might not have convinced with his gilt-edged chance in the first half, but he more than made amends on 59 minutes. The midfielder picked up the ball 45 yards from goal and burst forward. The nearest Reading player Harte appeared to turn his back, and the Toffees schemer unleashed an unstoppable shot which scorched past Taylor. The visitors were bedraggled and demoralised, and pretty soon Everton rubbed it in. The ball broke to Pienaar off Kelly and the playmaker slipped a defence-splitting pass to Mirallas who confidently beat Taylor at the near post. On his first Premier League start Jan Mucha had largely been untroubled, but Tim Howard’s deputy played his part, making a fine reflex save from McAnuff as Reading attempted to hit back. With 15 minutes remaining Moyes decided to further up the ante, replacing Osman with Victor Anichebe. It had been a near perfect afternoon, but there was to be no clean sheet to make it complete. Harte was allowed too much time to cross from the edge of the area and substitute Hal Robson-Kanu rose practically unchallenged to score with a powerful header. It was disappointing, but not enough to marr an otherwise assured performance. Anichebe went close after some nifty show-boating from Mirallas set him loose on goal, and Jelavic continued to take up dangerous positions in the area. Everton continued to probe but were equally content to see out the remaining minutes secure in the knowledge that their much-needed surge in momentum may have arrived just in time.
EVERTON: (4-4-1-1) Mucha, Coleman, Jagielka (Capt) (Heitinga, 5), Distin, Baines, Gibson, Osman (Anichebe, 74) Mirallas, Pienaar (Hitzlsperger, 81), Fellaini, Jelavic.
Subs not used: Springthorpe, Oviedo, Naismith, Neville.
Bookings: Coleman
Goals: Fellaini (42) Pienaar (59) Mirallas (67)
READING: (4-4-2) Taylor, Pearce, Mariappa, Leigertwood, Hunt (Blackman, 75) McAnuff (Capt), Kebe (Robson-Kanu, 19) Harte, Kelly, Akpan, Le Fondre.
Subs not used: Henly, Gunter, Karacan, McGleary, Morrison.
Bookings: LeFondre
Goals: Robon-Kanu (84)
Ref: Anthony Taylor
Attendance: 35,244

Forget Fellaini, the other Belgian could be the catalyst to fire Everton back into Europe
By John Edwards
Daily Mail 4 March 2013
He can hardly consider himself the best-known Belgian in the Everton team, let alone the Barclays Premier League, yet Kevin Mirallas’ timely return to form and fitness is being seen as the catalyst for bringing European football back to Goodison Park. In contrast to so many of his high-profile compatriots, the Belgium winger slipped under the radar when he joined Everton from Olympiakos for £6million last August. He was in danger of returning to relative anonymity after finally shaking off a nagging hamstring injury but doing little to lift his side out of a rut that yielded just one win in six Premier League games. With time running out to avoid being cut adrift in the race for European places, Everton needed a convincing win against Reading and telling contribution from Mirallas to restore belief that they can last the course. They got both, and manager David Moyes could not hide his relief, as he described why the 25-year old’s belated recuperation can hold the key to European qualification, via the League or FA Cup. Though angered by a late challenge by Adam Le Fondre on Phil Jagielka that left the England defender needing surgery on a deep ankle wound, Moyes saw Mirallas’ transformation as the missing link for fulfilling Everton’s early-season promise. A header from Everton’s most famous Belgian, Marouane Fellaini, stunning strike from Steven Pienaar and clever finish by Mirallas saw off Reading, who replied late on through Hal Robson-Kanu. ‘What we saw from Kevin today was a player who looked like he can score and create,’ said Moyes.
‘That’s not how he looked previously, but it was just a question of getting his fitness levels up again, and that has helped his confidence. ‘He looks like he’s got a goal in him now, and that gives the other players a real lift if they think he can finish things off for them. That’s really important for us, because we’ve needed someone to get on the end of things, whether it be Kevin or Nikica Jelavic.
'I thought Jela played well, but things aren’t going his way at present, so to have Kevin providing that threat is really important. ‘We’ll need that, for sure, if we are going to continue our form this season. It was the sort of form he showed early in the season when he was full of menace, and frightened teams. If he can continue that, then it will give us the edge we are looking for in the run-in. Some of the things he tried were audacious, and it was good to see him return to that level of confidence.’ Jagielka faces at least a fortnight out after being caught late by a challenge that looked like going unpunished, until referee Anthony Taylor walked over and inspected the damage before belatedly producing a yellow card. ‘He needs surgery at a local hospital tonight to stitch up the injury, because the cut is all the way down to the bone,’ said Moyes. ‘That tells you how bad it is. It is a really deep cut, and I wasn’t at all happy about the challenge.’ Reading’s survival quest is being hampered by refereeing decisions, according to manager Brian McDermott, who accused Taylor of missing a clear handball by Sylvain Distin in the area. ‘Last week against Wigan, some guy handled the ball in the middle of our box and they scored off that,’ he said. ‘This week, there’s a ball into their box, the guy puts his arms up, but the referee doesn’t give a penalty. 'That should have been a penalty today, while last week it was handball and Wigan’s goal should not have been given.
‘When we played Newcastle earlier this season, Demba Ba handled one blatantly into the net, and it was given as a goal, so you would like to think, with 10 games to go, things might turn a little bit. It is frustrating, but you just have to hope refs start seeing things a bit more.’

Kevin Mirallas resurgence lifts Everton morale in win over Reading
• David Moyes delighted at Kevin Mirallas's return to form
Richard Gibson at Goodison Park
The Guardian, March 4 2013
For Everton's manager David Moyes this was a victory that delivered more than three points. It was one that hinted that an over-reliance on Marouane Fellaini for goals might just be coming to an end.
Everton should have known things would turn out tickety-boo when Fellaini scored for the 11th time in the Premier League this season – they have not lost when he has registered. Yet it was the final goal of a fine three, a composed finish from another Belgian, Kevin Mirallas, midway through the second half, that most enthused Moyes. It was the second time inside a week that the £6m summer signing from Olympiakos had struck at Goodison Park, suggesting that he may become a more regular scoring outlet towards the fag end of the season. Steven Pienaar, who switched flanks effectively with Mirallas during the first half, also scored from distance as Everton finished with real swagger to clinch only a second league win since 2 January. "Mirallas was a very different player to the one who'd been operating in recent weeks. What we saw was a player who looked like he could score and create goals, and he didn't look like that previously," said Moyes, who in mitigation of Mirallas believes the Belgian is only now at full capacity following three months dogged by hamstring trouble. "That's really important for us because we've needed someone to get on the end of things. We'll need that if we are going to continue our form this season. It was the sort of form he showed early in the season when he was full of menace, and frightened teams. If he can continue that then it will give us the edge we are looking for in the run-in, and with the cup game coming up."
For the match in question, the FA Cup quarter-final against Wigan on Saturday, Everton will be without their captain, Phil Jagielka. A clumsy challenge by Reading's Adam le Fondre left a deep gash in Jagielka's ankle that required a hospital visit but should not sideline him for England's World Cup qualifiers in San Marino on 22 March and Montenegro four days later. Moyes condemned the offending tackle but Reading also cried foul after yet another fruitless away trip. They have mustered only five points on the road, the lowest return in the top flight, and their efforts to fight back on Saturday were hampered when the referee, Anthony Taylor, failed to see the ball strike Sylvain Distin's hand in the area. "When we played Newcastle earlier this season Demba Ba handled one blatantly into the net and it was given as a goal, so you would like to think, with 10 games to go, things might turn a little bit," said Reading's manager, Brian McDermott. "The problem is, at this level, when you go to places like Chelsea, Newcastle and Everton, the margins are very small. We need everything to be on our side, we need the ref to get those decisions right and we also need to play well. If all that happens, we've got a chance. It seems we've no problem when it comes to scoring late goals, but we just left ourselves too much to do." Indeed, Hal Robson-Kanu's near-post header emphasised second-from-bottom Reading's fighting spirit – it was the 17th time they had scored in the final 20 minutes of a Premier League match this season, exactly half of their overall goal tally. Man of the match Steven Pienaar (Everton)

Everton 3 Reading 1 match report: Steven Pienaar keeps all routes into Europe open
Kieran Daley
March 4 2013 The Independent
Midfielder Steven Pienaar, scorer of Everton's stunning second goal in the 3-1 victory over Reading on Saturday, admits the club may need to use the "back door" to secure European football at Goodison Park for next season. Everton's hopes of claiming a Champions League place took a knock last month but they still have an outside chance of finishing fourth. Even if they do not make it into the elite competition, they should be strong contenders to bring continental football back to the club via the Europa League, through league position or the FA Cup, in which they face Wigan on Saturday in the sixth round. Everton have not played in Europe since the 2009-10 season.
"Sometimes you have to go through the back door, so there is a little less pressure on us now," Pienaar said. "We will see how the other teams do and, hopefully, we can sneak in. "I think it is fairly good to play in European competitions. After the Premier League there are only two bigger cups – the Europa League and the Champions League. All the players want to play in it and it is important for the club to get European football. "We will just see. The Cup is the shortest route to European football. Next week [in the FA Cup] we are also at Goodison so, hopefully, this can be the place that gives us the passport to European football." Reading's manager, Brian McDermott, remains positive and sees last season's late charge to promotion as a good omen in the club's relegation battle this time. "I just hope our fans can stick with us because we might do it, you just never know," he said. "Last season we were written off pretty early. We've been written off before and we'll probably be written off again."
Goals: Everton Fellaini 42, Pienaar 59, Mirallas 66. Reading Robson-Kanu 84. Substitutions: Everton Heitinga 6 (Jagielka, 5), Anichebe (Osman, 75), Hitzlsperger (Pienaar, 82). Reading Robson-Kanu 7 (Kebe, 19), Blackman (Hunt, 75).
Bookings: Everton Coleman. Reading Le Fondre. Man of the match Fellaini. Match rating 7/10. Possession: Everton 60%. Reading 40%.
Attempts on target: Everton 11. Reading 5. Referee A Taylor (Greater Manchester).
Attendance 35,244.

EVERTON 3 - READING 1: STAIRWAY TO KEVIN
4th March 2013
By Daily Star
DAVID MOYES reckons Everton are coming back to the boil just at the right time as the Toffees’ season hots up. His FA Cup quarter-fi nalists stayed in the hunt for Europe via a big Premier League finish, with more than a hint of their stylish early-season form. True, last season’s hero Nikica Jelavic still can’t buy a goal – the struggling Croatian hit-man hasn’t netted in the league since early December. But Moyes’ top trio of Marouane Fellaini, Steven Pienaar and Kevin Mirallas are in the kind of form that signals a strong challenge from the Toffees. All three struck as relegation battlers Reading were put to the sword. Fellaini’s opener was followed by Pienaar’s super-charged rocket of a second. Yet Moyes was most delighted with Mirallas’ return to his best as the Belgian finally shook off the after-effects of a hamstring injury. Moyes said: “Mirallas was a very different player than the one who operating had been in recent weeks. He needed to get his fitness back, because he was out for a long time with the injury. “What we saw was a player who looked like he can score goals and create goals – and he didn’t look like that previously. “He looks like he’s got a goal in him and that gives players a real lift, if they think he can finish it off for them. “That’s really important for us because we’ve needed someone to get on the end of things. “Things aren’t going Jela’s way at present, so to have Kevin providing that threat is really important.” Mirallas’ one-two with the classy Pienaar after 66 minutes came with Reading already reeling from Fellaini’s 42nd-minute header and Pienaar’s blast on 59 minutes. It sealed Everton’s first league win in more than a month, and Moyes added: “We’ll need that, for sure, if we are going to continue our form this season.
“It was the sort of form he showed early in the season when he was full of menace and frightened teams. “If he can continue that, then it will give us the edge we are looking for in the run-in and the cup game. “The goal he got against Oldham in midweek did him good – some of the things he tried today were audacious, and it was good to see that confidence return.” But it wasn’t all good news for Moyes – skipper Phil Jagielka is out of Saturday’s cup tie with Wigan after Adam Le Fondre’s tackle cut his ankle to the bone. The apologetic Reading striker was only booked for his fifth-minute lunge on Jagielka, who was immediately booked in for surgery by Everton’s medical team. Moyes said: “He actually needs surgery to stitch up the injury, and that tells you how bad it is. It was severe.” Pienaar insists Everton can reach Europe with a strong Premier League finish, but he admits that the FA Cup now offers a handy short-cut to their target. The South Africa midfi eld ace said: “We’ve definitely not given up on qualifying through the league, but sometimes you have to go through the back door. “We have to see how other teams do and hopefully we can sneak in, but Wigan is not going to be an easy hurdle. “The cup is the shortest route to European football. All the players want to play in Europe and it’s important to our fans. “Next week’s tie is at Goodison, so maybe this is the place that gives us the passport to European football.” Brian McDermott’s only concern is survival – but the beleaguered Reading boss reckons he needs the rub of the green to avoid the drop. He was convinced the Royals should have had a penalty for handball against Sylvain Distin and claimed handling offences by Wigan and Newcastle had also gone unpunished. Sub Hal Robson-Kanu headed Reading’s customary late goal from an Ian Harte cross. But it was Le Fondre’s hit against the angle at 0-0 that had McDermott groaning. He said: “If that had gone in, things might have turned out differently. But they scored just before half-time, and their second goal was world class. “I don’t know anything about lesser sides getting a raw deal over decisions. It is frustrating, but you can’t moan about it. “We have to take referees out of the equation when it comes to staying up. “When you go to places like Everton, the margins are very small. We need everything to be on our side, we need the ref to get those decisions right and we also need to play well. “If all that happens, we have got a chance. It seems we have no problem when it comes to scoring late goals, but we just left ourselves too much to do.”

David Moyes hails miraculous Everton forward Kevin Mirallas
DAVID MOYES has earmarked the Everton star who can apply an extra touch of class as his side chase Wembley as well as a high finish in the league.
By: Peter Edwards
Daily Express March 4, 2013
Kevin Mirallas is finally back in the form that persuaded the Moyes to sanction the Belgian’s £6million arrival from Olympiakos last summer. With an FA Cup quarter-final on the horizon as well as a tough run-in for the European places, Moyes could not hide his delight after this victory. Marouane Fellaini rose to head Everton towards their first league success for a month, with Steven Pienaar’s rocket doubling their advantage. But it was Mirallas, who capped his own impressive performance with the third goal following a one-two with Pienaar, whose efforts cheered Moyes the most after a troublesome hamstring has clouded the forward’s campaign. Moyes said: “Mirallas was a very different player than the one who has been operating in recent weeks. He needed to get his fitness back, as he was out for a long time with the injury. “What we saw was a player who looked like he can score goals and create goals. And he didn’t look like that previously. “He looks like he has got a goal in him and that gives players a real lift if they think he can finish it off for them. We have needed somebody to get on the end of things. Things are not going Nikica Jelavic’s way at present, so to have Kevin providing a threat is important. “We’ll need that for sure if we are going to continue our form this season. It was the sort of form he showed early in the season when he was full of menace and frightened teams. “Some of the things he tried against Reading were audacious and it was good to see him return to that level of confidence.” Moyes’ mood was darkened, though, by skipper Phil Jagielka’s badly gashed ankle, which rules him out of the tie with Wigan. Some of the things he tried against Reading were audacious and it was good to see him return to that level of confidence. Despite the setback, Pienaar believes Everton can still reach Europe with a strong run-in, but knows the cup offers a shortcut. Winger Pienaar said: “We have definitely not given up on qualifying through the league, but sometimes you have to go through the back door. Wigan won’t be an easy hurdle, but the Cup is the shortest route to European football. ” Brian McDermott says his side need a change of luck to avoid going down. Hal Robson-Kanu’s header was just a consolation, and the Royals boss said: “When you come to places like this, margins are small. We need everything to be on our side and, if that happens, we’ve got a chance.”

Everton 3-1 Reading FC
James Walker-Roberts
March 4 2013
Reading Chronicles
HAL Robson-Kanu's late header was the only bright spot for Reading FC as they crashed to their third straight Premier League loss at Everton on Saturday. Marouane Fellaini gave the Toffees the lead just before half time when he headed past Stuart Taylor, making his first top-flight start in five years in place of the injured Adam Federici. The influential Steven Pienaar doubled the advantage on the hour mark with a stunning solo effort before setting up Kevin Mirallas to make sure of the points shortly afterwards. Royals did manage to get on the scoresheet when Robson-Kanu headed in Ian Harte's cross, but by then it was too little too late. To make matters worse for Reading, fellow strugglers QPR won at Southampton, putting even more emphasis on Royals' home game with Aston Villa next Saturday (3pm ko). A win at the Madejski could lift Reading out of the relegation zone, but, worryingly for such a crunch clash, they are likely to be far from full strength. Federici is a doubt after injuring his foot in training while Jimmy Kebe limped off early on against Everton and Pavel Pogrebnyak will be midway through his three-game suspension. In light of the Russian's absence at Goodison Park, McDermott handed starts to Noel Hunt and Adam Le Fondre, with Alex Pearce also recalled at the centre of defence in place of Sean Morrison. Neither Nicky Shorey nor Danny Guthrie made the squad, while Everton had goalkeeper troubles of their own as an injury to Tim Howard forced them to hand a first Premier League start to 30-year-old Jan Mucha.
Both sides were forced into yet more changes in the early stages as Everton skipper Phil Jagielka went off injured after a late tackle from Le Fondre and a groin injury meant Kebe had to be replaced by Robson-Kanu. The introduction of Robson-Kanu on 17 minutes came just as Le Fondre spurned Royals' best chance of the opening half. A corner from the right was only cleared to the penalty spot where the normally clinical Le Fondre smacked a shot against the woodwork. Up until then the visitors had kept Everton relatively quiet, but they soon came under pressure from the Champions League-chasing hosts. Adrian Mariappa did well to block a goal-bound effort from Pienaar and Taylor stood tall to deny Nikica Jelavic from a one-on-one chance. Former Manchester City keeper Taylor also punched away a swerving Mirallas shot, but there was nothing he could do about the opener on 41 minutes. Seamus Coleman outpaced Jobi McAnuff down the right wing and floated in a cross that was tailor-made for the imposing Fellaini to rise above his markers and head home.
Taylor did keep out another effort from the Belgian deep into injury time, and at 1-0 down at the break the visitors were far from out of the contest, as they showed at the Madejski earlier in the season. On that occasion a couple of second-half Le Fondre goals gave them a 2-1 victory and left David Moyes' men ruing a number of missed opportunities. There were to be no such frustrations for Everton this time around as Pienaar scored a wonderful second on the hour mark. Minutes after Jelavic and Fellaini both had close-range efforts blocked, Pienaar picked up the ball inside the Reading half, drove towards goal and unleashed a powerful 25-yard shot that flew past Taylor.
But even at 2-0 down, Royals have shown that they are never out of it, and they should have been handed a route back into the game minutes after conceding the second. A cross from Le Fondre clearly hit the outstretched arm of Sylvain Distin as he slid across to block it, but referee Anthony Taylor waved away sustained appeals from the visitors. To rub salt into Reading's wounds, Everton then delivered the knockout blow on 66 minutes. Again Pienaar was involved, threading a ball through the defence for Mirallas to run on to and place a shot past Taylor. With the game now out of sight, McAnuff forced a decent save out of Mucha with a curling effort before seeing the Slovakian fumble a tamer attempt just past the post. Royals did get the ball in the net on 83 minutes when Robson-Kanu headed in a Harte cross from the left wing, but they could not muster another late comeback in the closing stages.

Everton 3-1 Reading: Brilliant Belgians on target as Royals come unstuck against the Toffees
March 4 2014 Daily Mirror
Phil Jagielka’s FA Cup hopes were left dashed – and gashed – after an Adam Le Fondre challenge marred Everton’s cosy victory. Everton’s Jagielka was forced off yesterday after Le ¬Fondre’s clumsy third-minute tackle left his ankle ¬needing surgery. Toffees boss David Moyes saw his side finish ¬comfortable winners against struggling Reading. But ¬Jagielka’s injury left a sour taste – and a hole in the Everton defence – ahead of the FA Cup quarter-final clash with Wigan on ¬Saturday.
Moyes was furious and blasted: “It’s a bad, bad gash and I’m not happy with the challenge that caused it. “Jags needs surgery to stitch it up. I’m unhappy about ¬losing a centre-half for a couple of weeks.” But Reading manager Brian ¬McDermott defended striker Le Fondre, saying: “No way would he ‘do’ ¬anybody. He’s not that kind of player. He’s a very honest type.” For the rest of the game, big-haired Belgian ¬Marouane Fellaini gave Reading the real short back and sides treatment. His first-half strike cracked open the rocky Royals, and his second-half set-up allowed Steven Pienaar to put home an absolute belter. And as the visitors wilted under ¬pressure, Fellaini’s fellow Belgian Kevin Mirallas put the game to bed with ¬another text-book finish. A Goodison victory ended the Premier League stutter being experienced by David Moyes’ side and put back on track Fellaini’s dream of playing Champions League football with the Toffees next season. If that doesn’t happen, predators could lure away the £30million-rated talisman, with both Manchester clubs, Chelsea and Real Madrid said to be targeting him. The 25-year-old Belgian seems to have everything in his locker, from scoring goals to getting back in defence to play a vital role there. Moyes added: “Fellaini made a great return and was a great ¬influence. “He’s a fine player to watch and has a lot of ¬attributes. He can get better, but on his day he’s a real handful. The cross for his goal from Gibson was a real peach and Fellaini ¬finished it well.” Fellaini’s opener – his 12th of the season – was a classic header that followed a great run by Darron Gibson. His tee-up cross to the far post gave Fellaini the chance to power the ball past Reading’s third-string keeper Stuart Taylor. Then Fellaini took the ball forward from the centre circle before laying off to Pienaar, who cut inside to hammer in a blockbuster. Pienaar then turned ¬provider as he set up Mirallas, who kept his cool to strike cleanly past Taylor. But as Everton kept alive their hopes of a top-four spot, Reading could only manage a late consolation goal by ¬substitute Hal Robson-Kanu. The Royals gave their all — Le Fondre also hit the woodwork early on – but it wasn’t enough to tame Moyes’s side, who are still aiming at FA Cup glory as well as that ¬Champions League qualifying place. ¬McDermott said: “We didn’t do an awful lot wrong and it could have been a lot ¬different if Le Fondre’s shot had gone in. We have to stick together and if we keep the spirit we can make it out of trouble.”

Everton 3 Reading 1
March 4 2013 The Daily Sun
By Phil Thomas
DAVID MOYES saw Everton get back on the winning trail — yet still left Goodison with a face like thunder. One win in the last five had threatened to derail the Toffees’ charge for a European slot so, on any other day, a comfortable win over one of the strugglers would have put a smile on the manager’s face. Instead, Moyes was more concerned with the challenge on skipper Phil Jagielka which will keep him out of next week’s FA Cup clash with Wigan. Jagielka limped off after just three minutes, thanks to a late Adam Le Fondre boot which left the centre-back with a severely gashed ankle. Amazingly, ref Anthony Taylor was going to let the Reading striker off scot free, until Jagielka himself pointed out the severity — and the official showed a yellow card almost as an afterthought.
Moyes certainly saw it — and was not happy. He raged: “Jags is bad and is going to get surgery on the ankle — not to repair the bone but to stitch it up under surgery. “I don’t know how long he’ll be out but it is a bad, bad gash. I am not happy with the challenge. “I’m one who doesn’t mind robust challenges but one that puts out one of my best players? “It’s a real, real blow to us.” Jagielka certainly is not a player who goes down easily — an answer in itself to the Reading fans who did not seem to think he was seriously hurt. Reading boss Brian McDermott was right when he insisted Le Fondre is not the sort who would deliberately try to “do” a player. Yet not even he could deny the striker had arrived late. The Royals chief said: “Adam isn’t that type, he’s a very honest player and there is no way he would go out to do anyone.” Nonetheless, there were some Reading players who appeared to take the phrase “relegation fight” a little too literally. Noel Hunt, for one, could get a call from the FA this week for a clash with Sylvain Distin which left the Everton defender down for a minute or two. Moyes added: “I’ve not seen that challenge again but I was surprised the referee didn’t stop play. “But it means nothing to us if a Reading player gets punished. I’m just disappointed we are losing a centre-half.” Reading, stuck in the relegation slots, almost went ahead when Le Fondre rattled a post from 15 yards. But when Seamus Coleman sent in a superb cross for Marouane Fellaini to nod the hosts ahead, it was one-way traffic from then on. Steven Pienaar added an unbelievable second and Kevin Mirallas capped his return to form with a shrewd finish for the third, wrong-footing stand-in keeper Stuart Taylor. Everton had a stop-gap stopper, too — Jan Mucha ending Tim Howard’s run of 210 league games just two short of Neville Southall’s club-record run.
Barring the odd save, Mucha did not have much to do, though he could have done had the ref seen Distin’s raised arm block a Le Fondre cross. In the end, Reading got a reward of sorts when Hal Robson-Kanu nodded in a late consolation. For Everton, their consolation will come if Jagielka is not on the treatment table for too long.
DREAM TEAM STAR MAN — Pienaar (Everton)
EVERTON: Mucha 6, Coleman 7, Jagielka 4 (Heitinga 6), Distin 6, Baines 7, Mirallas 7, Gibson 6, Osman 6 (Anichebe 5), Pienaar 8 (Hitzlsperger 5), Fellaini 7, Jelavic 5. Subs not used: Springthorpe, Oviedo, Naismith, Neville. Booked: Coleman.
READING: Taylor 7, Kelly 6, Mariappa 7, Pearce 6, Harte 7, Kebe 4 (Robson-Kanu 6), Leigertwood 6, Akpan 6, McAnuff 6, Le Fondre 7, Hunt 6 (Blackman 5). Subs not used: Henly, Gunter, Karacan, McCleary, Morrison. Booked: Le Fondre.
REF: A Taylor 7

Everton FC analysis: Flowing football returns to lift Blues
by David Prentice
Mar 4 2013
IT was a slick, flowing, soul-stirring move – passing and movement straight from the School of Science textbook. Marouane Fellaini chested the ball down magisterially on the halfway line and passed to a darting Leighton Baines. He found Kevin Mirallas on the overlap, the Belgian passed to Pienaar, then cut inside to collect the smart back-heel – and a Goal of the Month contender was only thwarted by Stuart Taylor's diving save. It was a smooth, incisive, instinctive move. A move reminiscent of early season enthusiasm, when players were bright, unencumbered by tiredeness or injury – and the kind of move Everton produced regularly in August and September, but only hinted at in recent weeks. “Well I disagree with that because I think the flowing football has been there in recent weeks,” he rapped. “We've played very well between the boxes in other games as well.
“We played very well at Manchester United and we played very well at Norwich.” Well, we all see games differently. And it wasn't just me. Two radio interviewers posed the same suggestion and were met with an equally spiky response. So where has it slipped in recent weeks? After all Saturday's comfortable eclipse of Reading was Everton's first league win since January.
The answer it seems, lies in the penalty boxes. Everton haven't taken the chances they have created, but much more damagingly they can't keep clean sheets either. The back to back shut outs against Swansea and Southampton last month were the only occasions Everton had kept out their opponents since September. Perhaps significantly, they were also games where Everton failed to score, too. Everton appear to have placed a greater emphasis this season on causing opposition problems. And it's been good to watch. Seamus Coleman – as he did thrillingly for the first goal on Saturday – and Leighton Baines as he has done quite magnificently all season, have been encouraged to get forward and create chances. They are expected to defend, of course. But not at the expense of creating opportunities which is a pleasing contradiction of a team's usual priorities for its full-backs. Only the very best teams with the very best players can do both, which is why Evertonians have had to become accustomed to seeing their side become the staple for “Both Teams To Score” betting slips this season. It happened once again on Saturday – and according to the statistics was always going to. Only Manchester United have scored more goals in the final 15 minutes of matches this season than Reading, and Everton have conceded late, late goals to Oldham and Norwich recently. When you toss in the fact that no side has conceded more headed goals than Everton this season – 14 – a late goal from Reading, from a flying header, was pretty much nailed on.
The good thing is that Hal Robson-Kanu's consolation header didn't matter, because a free-flowing Everton had scored three times already, missed significant other chances and even overcame the loss of the influential Phil Jagielka and Tim Howard to romp to victory. Similar creativity will be necessary against Wigan on Saturday, but the only concern is that Everton's next season-defining challenge is a Cup-tie, where one lapse in concentration can be fatal and the result, not the performance, is paramount. It was ironic that on Saturday Everton got to within seven minutes of a rare clean sheet with a goalkeeper making his Premier League debut and an out-of-form Johnny Heitinga on from the fifth minute following Phil Jagielka's exit with a lacerated ankle. Jan Mucha and the Dutchman both performed solidly enough, but someone wasn't paying attention at the back when Jobi McAnuff crossed and Robson-Kanu was left unmarked. In the end it didn't matter – and hopefully won't next weekend either. Everton have successfully negotiated four FA Cup ties already this season without needing a clean sheet. In 1966 Everton won the Cup without conceding a goal until they got to Wembley. In 1984 only Notts County breached Neville Southall's goal, in '95 it was just a dodgy penalty in the semi-final. Could this be the year they do it differently? Like much of Everton's football this season, Saturday's Cup quarter-final could be a match worth watching.

Former Everton FC player Francis Jeffers bound over after broomstick row
By Jamie Bowman
Mar 4 2013
FORMER Everton FC and England star Francis Jeffers was bound over to keep the peace for 12 months today following a row with his estranged wife's father. The ex-Arsenal, Sheffield Wednesday and Rangers striker walked free from Sefton Magistrates Court after a common assault charge was reduced to one of threatening behaviour. Jeffers, 31, was arrested by police on December 21, 2012, after they were called to an incident outside Jeffers' father in law, Albert Boden's apartment in Crosby. Jeffers, who the court heard had recently separated from his wife Lucy, was found waving a broomstick outside the coastal apartment block where the former footballer also has a flat.
Lorraine Barton, prosecuting, said that Mr Bowden, who did not appear at court, did receive some injuries. Jeffers, who confirmed that he was not currently working, was ordered by chairman of the bench, Peter Rathe, to be bound over to keep the peace for 12 months or risk facing a fine of up to £100.

Everton under-21s recover from two down to stun Blackburn Rovers
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Mar 5 2013
THREE goals in the final 14 minutes saw Everton come from two down to maintain their unbeaten start to 2013 with a stunning victory over Blackburn Rovers yesterday. The visitors were looking to avenge a 3-0 loss in the reverse fixture in January and looked set to do so as they took control through Kellan Daly’s early tap-in and a wonderful long-range effort from the impressive John O’Sullivan. But midfielder Ross Barkley gave Everton hope by driving the ball home from a near-impossible angle before Apostolos Vellios stabbed home to level the scores with four minutes remaining. Having come from two behind to draw at Sunderland a week ago, it looked as though Alan Stubbs’ side were again set to take a point but there was just enough time remaining for Conor McAleny to provide a cool finish and give his side what could prove a priceless win.
Stubbs was able to name a strong side, with German international Thomas Hitzlsperger joined by six other players boasting Everton first-team experience. Two days after being included in David Moyes’ squad for the 3-1 win over Reading, there was also just a third second-string start for goalkeeper Mason Springthorpe, while Bryan Oviedo added further international know-how on the bench.
EVERTON RESERVES: Springthorpe, Stones, Browning, Duffy, Garbutt, Junior, Kennedy, Barkley, Hitzlsperger, Vellios, McAleny.

Former Everton FC player Francis Jeffers bound over after broomstick row
By Jamie Bowman
Mar 5 2013
EX-EVERTON FC striker Francis Jeffers was found by police wielding a broomstick outside his father-in-law’s home, a court heard. The 31-year-old former Goodison Park starlet was arrested on December 21 last year when they answered a 999 call. He was bound over to keep the peace for 12 months at South Sefton magistrates court yesterday after a common assault charge was reduced to one of threatening behaviour. Lorraine Barton, prosecuting, told the court that Jeffers, of Burbo Bank Road, Blundellsands, had recently separated from his wife Lucy, whom he married in 2009.
She said: “Their marriage had broken down and an incident took place outside his flat. Officers attended. They found Mr Jeffers outside one of the flats with a broomstick.” The court was told that the victim in the case was Jeffers’ father-in-law, Albert Boden, who was found by police with “some injuries”. Jeffers was arrested but did not comment during his police interview. Mr Boden was expected to attend court as a witness yesterday but failed to appear. His wife told the ECHO he had stayed in bed yesterday morning after a birthday party. It is understood police were unable to pursue a charge of assault because Mr Boden did not wish to pursue a formal complaint.
Peter Rathe, chairman of the bench, ordered Jeffers to keep the peace for 12 months or risk receiving a fine of up to £100. The public order charge was formally dismissed. Jeffers, who confirmed to the court that he was not currently working, remains without a football club since leaving Maltese club Floriana FC, in November, 2012, when club officials told him they were unable to pay his wages. Jeffers, who made his Everton debut as a 16-year-old against Manchester United on Boxing Day, 1997, was once tipped as one of England’s brightest talents. He was signed by Arsenal in 2001 for £8m but after being tagged a “fox in the box” by manager Arsene Wenger, he struggled at the London club, making only 22 league appearances in three years. Jeffers later returned to Everton on loan and also played for Charlton and Rangers.

Everton FC defender Seamus Coleman is hoping Kevin Mirallas partnership will prosper
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 5 2013
SEAMUS COLEMAN hopes his influential partnership with Kevin Mirallas can prosper without being marred by injuries as Everton FC bid to end the season in style. The right-sided duo were involved in all three of the Blues goals during Saturday’s 3-1 win over Reading, and created most of their side’s chances as the Royals focused their efforts on stopping Leighton Baines and Steven Pienaar on the left.
Player Stats — Seamus Coleman
Games Played 16
Minutes Played 1,263
Starts 14
Interceptions 27
Substitution On 2
Substitution Off 1
Duels Won 56.6%
Aerial duels won 50%
David Moyes hopes having a potent combination down both flanks can be the key to propelling his team into the European qualifying spots, and Coleman is just hoping they manage to avoid the injuries which have restricted both of them this term. The 24-year-old said: “Kevin’s got loads of ability, but a bit like myself he’s been in and out with injuries this season. “He’s been in the team while I’ve been out and we’ve not always been able to work together but he’s a top player.
“You can give him the ball and he’ll make things happen. Naisy (Steven Naismith) as well is someone who you know will fill in for you when you overlap. We’ve got some good players and need to kick on from here.” Coleman has been in fine form during Everton’s last three games, and has his sights set on helping the Blues capitalise on their run of five home fixtures. The business of bidding for a top five spot in the Premier League goes on hold on Saturday when the focus switches to the FA Cup quarter final visit of Wigan. But Coleman insists nobody in the Toffees dressing room has given up on qualifying for Europe via the league just yet. “We’d eased off in the last few weeks which has been disappointing but we’ve got some home games coming up now and I think two wins on the bounce can be a massive help in the league,” said the former Sligo Rovers right-back. “We won’t give up fighting. We know it’s going to be difficult put we’ll keep plugging away until the end and if we can start seeing out games then you never know.”

Everton FC defender Phil Jagielka to be out for three weeks
By Greg O'Keeffe
Mar 5 2013
EVERTON FC defender Phil Jagielka is set to be sidelined for three weeks - missing the FA Cup quarter final on Saturday and the Goodison visit of Manchester City the following weekend.
The 30-year-old is also likely to miss England's World Cup qualifiers at the end of the month after he had surgery on the badly-gashed ankle he suffered during Saturday's win over Reading. Roy Hodgson’s side play San Marino away on March 22 before facing Montenegro three days later, but Jagielka is unlikely to be selected because he has been sidelined for the domestic fixtures.
The centre-half, who was hurt in a clumsy challenge by Adam Le Fondre, has not missed a single league game all season for Everton. David Moyes was unhappy with Le Fondre’s tackle and the Royals striker apologised after the game to Jagielka, claiming it was accidental.

Phil Jagielka to miss Everton's FA Cup clash with Wigan
By Ian Doyle
Mar 5 2013
PHIL JAGIELKA will be absent as Everton aim to secure a return to Wembley this weekend.
Jagielka has been sidelined for at least a fortnight after suffering a badly-gashed ankle in Saturday’s 3-1 Premier League win over Reading at Goodison. The centre-back spent Saturday night in hospital having the injury stitched up having been caught by a late challenge by Reading striker Adam le Fondre just minutes into the match. Jagielka has to allow the injury to heal, and that means sitting out Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final visit of Wigan Athletic along with the following week’s visit of champions Manchester City. The 30-year-old is also now a major doubt for England’s World Cup qualifying double header in San Marino and Montenegro later this month. It’s not the first time Jagielka’s FA Cup participation has been affected by injury, with the defender missing the final in 2009 with serious knee damage and playing only nine minutes of last season’s run to the semi-final.
Meanwhile, Darron Gibson is hopeful he can avoid surgery this summer as he continues to be troubled by a niggling thigh complaint. Gibson has twice missed lengthy spells this season due to the problem, but returned to the first-team at the end of January. Everton manager David Moyes revealed last week the Republic of Ireland international could require an operation at the end of the season to rectify the problem. But Gibson said: “Fingers crossed it won’t need an operation in the summer. I don’t really want to talk about it too much. “I’m just managing it at the minute. I’m happy enough. I’m comfortable playing.” Despite still challenging for a Champions League berth, Everton have kept only four clean sheets in 28 Premier League this season. And although the Goodison side recorded successive 3-1 wins inside five days last week, Gibson admitted: “It’s been damaging the amount of goals we’ve conceded, but this week the attacking side overpowered the defensive side.
“It was frustrating not to get the clean sheet but we created a lot of chances and could have had a lot more goals. If you look at the game as a whole I think our attacking was a lot better than it has been lately. “It was a great result and we needed it after the last few results. We’ve conceded too many goals and it was unfortunate to concede another one, but I thought we deserved the win and played well.”

Ryo set for Goodison return
Wigan Today
March 5 2013
RYO Miyaichi could be Wigan Athletic’s secret weapon ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final against Everton after coming through his long-awaited comeback unscathed. The on-loan Arsenal winger has been plagued by groin and ankle problems since joining Wigan last summer, making only one start and five substitute appearances in a Latics shirt. Miyaichi, who made such a big impression last season on loan at Bolton, hadn’t kicked a ball since the 3-0 defeat at Liverpool in mid-November.
But he successfully negotiated 45 minutes of action for Graham Barrow’s Development Squad at Nottingham Forest and, barring a reaction this week, could make a surprise appearance on the bench for the trip to Everton. “We need to be careful we don’t push him too early,” said boss Roberto Martinez. “But I do see his ankle is fully recovered, and it is just a matter of introducing him slowly and seeing how he responds to his individual programme.” Adrian Lopez played the full 90 minutes in Wigan’s 1-0 defeat – the first in four matches for Barrow’s men – which further increases Martinez’s options. Nouha Dicko also played the full game although Callum McManaman and Fraser Fyvie were left out of the squad, hinting at possible starts at Goodison Park on Saturday.
There was also another run-out for young goalkeeper Marko Marosi, who is trying to earn a professional contract after being recommended to the club by former Latics defender Barry Knowles – the man who delivered Leighton Baines to Wigan. “Marko is only 19 but has come from college football in Burnley and I think he has a great future in the game,” said Knowles. “He is one to keep an eye on and hopefully he will have a decent career at Wigan. “He’ll be there on trial until the end of the season. I have high hopes for him.” Martinez, meanwhile, was back in his homeland yesterday to pick up the Catalan Coach of the Year award for 2012 at a gala dinner. Tickets for the FA Cup quarter-final at Everton went on general sale this morning to supporters on the database, and will remain on sale until 4pm on Friday.
Those in the Paddock are priced £35 adults, £21.75 for over 65s and £17.50 for Under-16s.
Tickets in the Lower Bullens are £32 adults, £20.25 for over 65s and £16 for Under-16s.
Ambulant/disabled prices are the same as relevant price (includes free carer if eligible), and there is a £5 discount in price for Latics season-ticket holders.

Ian Snodin: Wonderful Kevin Mirallas must be mentally tougher because Everton need him
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Mar 5 2013
Everton v Reading at Goodison Park. Kevin Mirallas celebrates after scoring Everton's third goal.
KEVIN Mirallas underlined on Saturday precisely why it’s so important that he stays fit and firing until the end of the season. In order to do that I think it’s important he toughens up.
I’m not having a pop at the lad – I think he’s a wonderfully talented footballer and that’s why he’s so important to Everton’s hopes of qualifying for Europe.
Player Stats — Kevin Mirallas
Games Played 17
Minutes Played 984
Starts 13
Interceptions 11
Substitution On 4
Substitution Off 11
Duels Won 36.3%
Aerial duels won 28.6%
But during a season when he’s missed plenty of games with niggly injuries, I wonder if he’s found it a bit too hard to adapt to the tougher mental attitude of life in the Premier League and specifically at Everton. It’s a club where players solider on and often carry little injuries like Leighton Baines has done for large parts with the ankle complaint which he picked up earlier in the season.
Maybe Mirallas has been a bit too quick to rule himself out, but either way he is fit now and I sincerely hope it stays that way. Roberto Martinez must have been looking at Everton on Saturday and wondering how his side are going to stop Steven Pienaar down one flank and Mirallas on the right. It’s a formidable two-pronged attacking prospect when they’re firing on all cylinders.
Hopefully Mirallas can plug away until May.

Wigan Athletic boss Martinez to make changes for Everton FA Cup clash
by Rob MacDonald. March 5 2013
Lancashire Click
Roberto Martinez has revealed he will make changes for Wigan Athletic's FA Cup quarter-final against Everton. The Latics find themselves just outside the relegation zone on goal difference following Saturday's 4-0 defeat against Liverpool, a situation that is in Martinez’s thinking ahead of the clash at Goodison Park. "Success in the Cup is something we want, but never at the price that it would affect our league campaign," he revealed. "That's something I will never allow to happen. Our situation is a dangerous one and the position we are in after losing to Liverpool means we need to find the best possible team to carry on playing in the league. "The Cup game will give us the opportunity to make changes. Not to rest people, but maybe to find people who deserve to be in the team and to develop real competition. "Those who have played in the Cup deserve an opportunity and need to show what they can do against Premier League opposition."

Everton FC could face under-strength Wigan as they bid to reach Wembley
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 6 2013
EVERTON FC could be facing an under-strength Wigan side as they bid to reach Wembley on Saturday. The Blues host Roberto Martinez’s Latics in the quarter-final of the FA Cup at Goodison, and the Spaniard has admitted he may change his usual first team to preserve his most experienced players for their Premier League relegation struggle. Martinez has made significant changes in previous FA Cup rounds, and after his side were thrashed 4-0 by Liverpool at the DW Stadium on Saturday he is more inclined to rotate his personnel again for the cup tie. “Success in the Cup is something we want, but never at the price that it would affect our league campaign,” he said ahead of Saturday lunchtime's tie. “That's something I will never allow to happen. Our situation is a dangerous one and the position we are in after losing to Liverpool means we need to find the best possible team to carry on playing in the league.” In the fifth round Martinez's selection decision was a success as his side dispatched Huddersfield 4-1. But he recognises that Everton will be an altogether sterner test. “The Cup game will give us the opportunity to make changes,” he added. “Not to rest people, but maybe to find people who deserve to be in the team and to develop real competition. “Those who have played in the Cup deserve an opportunity and need to show what they can do against Premier League opposition.” Blues fans are urged to get their tickets early ahead of this Saturday’s game. With Wembley in sight, tickets have been selling fast since they went on sale to season ticket holders last Thursday and lengthy queues formed at Goodison Park this weekend when the tickets went on general sale. Everton officials are encouraging supporters to act quickly to secure their seat for the match, which kicks off at 12.45pm. Prices start from £31 for adults and half-price for juniors for the FA Cup quarter-final and all 2012/13 season ticket holders purchasing their ticket prior to matchday will receive a £5 discount. Visit the Goodison Park Box Office, call 0871 663 1878 or visit evertonfc.com/eticketing. Alternatively you can buy your ticket from the Liverpool city centre ticket outlets at Everton Two or the TicketQuarter in Queen Square.

Everton FC's Steven Pienaar tells Ross Barkley to look within himself to justify hype
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Mar 6 2013
STEVEN PIENAAR insists it is up to Ross Barkley to justify the hype which surrounded the youngster’s early Everton FC career. And the South African says the teenager – who scored a fine strike for Everton’s U-21 side on Monday – must look within himself to do so. Barkley is back at Everton after a brief and frustrating loan spell at Leeds United, while David Moyes ponders whether to send him back out to the Championship or keep him at Goodison for the rest of the season.
Player Stats — Steven Pienaar
Games Played 27
Minutes Played 2,375
Starts 27
Interceptions 52
Substitution On 0
Substitution Off 5
Duels Won 49.5%
Aerial duels won
48.5% Pienaar hopes the England U-21 international is able to stay on Merseyside and get a further taste for first-team football as the Blues’ small squad bids for both Premier League and FA Cup success. He said: “I’ve always had a word with Ross and I still believe he’ll be one of the best players in a few years time if he pushes himself. It’s all up to himself. “He has the ability but we can’t just keep on praising him, he has to do it himself. He’s young and I think now that he’s back we might need him in the next couple of months because we’ll need everyone at the moment and maybe he’ll get his chance to play.” Barkley has made just three Premier League appearances for the Blues so far this term, although he has featured in 13 games for Sheffield Wednesday and four while at Elland Road. His spell at Neil Warnock’s side was ruined by being dropped and played out of position, but since returning Barkley has been playing regularly for Alan Stubbs’ second string and enjoying life back at Finch Farm. Everton are currently top of Group One in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League, with only the side finishing top able to continue into the play-offs at the end of the campaign. Their fourth win in five games on Monday stretched the gap between second-placed Chelsea to four points, and Stubbs admitted Barkley’s impressive intervention was timely.
“Ross’ goal was the lifeline we needed,” he said. “It was one of those nights where nothing really went for us. Our passing was sloppy at times and we didn’t win enough second balls. It was nearly a ‘nearly’ night for us so how we’ve won the game, I don’t know. That’s football – it’s a strange and cruel game at times.”

Bidwell extends Brentford stay
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
London 24
Everton defender Jake Bidwell has extended his loan at Brentford by a further month.
The 19-year-old left-back has been with the Bees since September and was due to return to Goodison Park today. The renewed deal keeps him with Uwe Rosler’s League One promotion-chasers until April 6. Bidwell has made 38 appearances for the Bees this term in addition to the 25 games he clocked up during a stint at Griffin Park last term.

Kevin Sheedy delighted to see Everton U18 striker Chris Long recognised by England
by Neil Jones, Liverpool Echo
Mar 7 2013
EVERTON striker Chris Long featured for England U18s as they ended their season with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Belgium on Tuesday. Long played the full 90 minutes for Noel Blake’s side in La Louviere, and will return to Finch Farm for this weekend’s game with Manchester United.
Kevin Sheedy said: “It’s great for Chris to be involved with the England set-up, and recognition for the hard work he puts in every day. “He’s been at Everton since he was six years old, so it is recognition not just for him, but also for the staff members who have helped his development throughout his time.” Meanwhile, young Blues duo Jonjoe Kenny and Ryan Ledson have been named in the England Under-16 squad for the annual Montaigu Tournament in France later this month. “Both have been big players at both U16 and U18 level,” added Sheedy.

Everton FC: Tables still available for Tony Hibbert tickets
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Mar 7 2013
A HANDFUL of tables remain for Tony Hibbert’s Testimonial Dinner, which is staged at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Saturday March 16. Everton squads past and present will be present on the night, which is in support of Claire House and the Rainbow Trust charities.
Tables of 10 for the black tie dinner, which also features live entertainment, cost £750 and can be booked by contacting hibberttestimonial@yahoo.co.uk

Kevin Sheedy demands improvement from Everton U18s in defending of set pieces
by Neil Jones, Liverpool Echo
Mar 7 2013
KEVIN SHEEDY admits it will be back to the drawing board for Everton’s U18 side this week as they look to iron out their recent defensive issues. The young Blues were in generous mood in their Academy clash at Reading on Saturday, offering up two penalties as they slid to a disappointing 4-3 defeat in Berkshire. Sheedy and his staff at Finch Farm have analysed the video of that defeat, and say there is work to be done on the training pitch ahead of this weekend’s clash, particularly with regards to their defending of set pieces, “It was a very disappointing result, and I don’t think we played as well as we have been doing,” he said. “I think defensively, our work was unacceptable. We need to work on one of two things having studied the tapes. “We conceded two penalties because of sloppy, rash tackles in the penalty area, which is something that has unfortunately crept into our game of late. “But our defending of set pieces needs to improve also, both in terms of first and second balls. Reading were a strong, tall side that likes to use set pieces to their advantage, and we never dealt well enough with what they threw at us. “We conceded too many free-kicks in and around the box, and then we didn’t defend them as we should have.” There will be no time for the U18s to lick their wounds, with Manchester United due to visit Finch Farm on Saturday morning.
“We will need to be back on our game if we are to get back to winning ways,” said Sheedy.
“United are a good side with some very impressive individual players which we are well aware of.
“We need to get our head down and work hard on the training pitch.”

Everton FC prospect Jake Bidwell extends loan at Brentford by a month
by Neil Jones, Liverpool Echo
Mar 7 2013
JAKE BIDWELL has had his loan deal from Everton FC to Brentford extended by another month.
The 19-year-old left-back has been with the League One outfit since August, and will now remain at Griffin Park until at least April 6, Everton have confirmed. He had originally been due to return to Goodison Park on Wednesday. The England U19 international has made 38 appearances so far this season, and featured in the Bees’ 1-0 defeat to Stevenage on Tuesday night. Meanwhile, Blues prospect George Green has been called up to the England U17 squad for this month’s Euro Elite Qualifying Round fixtures. Green, who signed his first professional deal with the club in January, was selected by boss John Peacock for three games on home soil later this month. England host Portugal, Russia and Slovenia, with one of the four nations claiming a place at May’s Championship finals in Slovakia.

David Unsworth on why he’s backing Everton FC in the meeting of his former clubs this weekend
by Neil Jones, Liverpool Echo
Mar 7 2013
HE WAS the star performer the last time Everton FC won a major trophy, and the man who converted the most valuable penalty in Wigan Athletic’s recent history. So when his two former clubs go head to head this weekend, with a place in the FA Cup semi-finals at stake for the winner, is it fair to suggest that David Unsworth can’t really lose? The answer, it seems, is a resounding ‘no’. He may retain an affection for Wigan, but his five-month spell in Lancashire pales when compared to the dozen years, and the two stints, spent in the Royal Blue of Everton. Unsworth knows exactly where his heart will lie come Saturday afternoon. “It will always be Everton for me,” he says. “It’s where I spent the majority of my career, it’s where I had my best days, and it’s the club I will always follow. “I had a good time at Wigan towards the back end of my career, and I’ve got a lot of time for the club. It’s a great club, and it is wonderful to see them continuing to punch above their weight in the Premier League. “But come Saturday, the only result I will be hoping for is an Everton win. I would love nothing more than to see them go all the way – and I wouldn’t mind a nice trip to Wembley with my pals to watch them either!” Unsworth was a fresh-faced 21-year-old the last time Everton lifted the FA Cup. His performance against Manchester United in the final at Wembley, in which he stifled the threat of Mark Hughes, marked him out as one of English football’s brightest prospects. Three weeks later, he made his England debut in a friendly against Japan.
And though he would go on to make more than 500 career appearances, the bulk of them for Everton, that summer of 1995 remains a high point. The 39-year-old, though, says he is desperate to see that class of 95 emulated by the current Everton side. And he believes that this season presents as good a chance as any. “I’ve just got this feeling for Everton this season,” he admits. “Which is strange really, because I’m not usually like that! “I just think that with the way the cup has gone this season, and with the team Everton have and the way they have been playing, they have a great chance. “They had a little bit of a wobble at the turn of the year, and they have dropped a few points of late, but at this stage of the competition a home draw is all any side could ask for. Wigan are a decent side on their day with some very good players, but Everton have got to fancy their chances. I certainly do. “Then once Wigan are out the way, the hope is that they can avoid the big boys in the semi-finals and draw the winner of the Millwall versus Blackburn Rovers tie. Of course they will have to beat one of the big sides if they are to win the cup, but you’d rather face them in the final then the semis, that’s for sure.” Unsworth is currently head of coaching at League One side Sheffield United, overseeing the development of an Academy that has produced a raft of talent in recent seasons. Matthew Lowton and Kyle Walker came through the ranks at Bramall Lane and are now Premier League regulars. So too, of course, is another former Blade, Phil Jagielka. The centre-back will be missing for Everton this weekend, following the ankle injury sustained against Reading on Saturday. Unsworth sees the England man’s absence as a big blow, but has backed Johnny Heitinga to step in as cover, despite the Dutchman’s recent woes. “Being without Jagielka is a big loss,” he says. “He has been consistently excellent for them this season, so he will be missed on Saturday. “But Heitinga is an international centre-half. People forget that. I know he’s had a few problems, but on his day he is a class defender, and Everton should have no worries about asking him to fill in.” IT WAS the penalty which decided the future of two clubs. Bramall Lane, driving rain, May 2007. David Unsworth, representing Wigan, stepped up against Sheffield United, the club he had left just four months previously. Both were staring down the relegation barrel. Score, and Wigan would stay up. Miss, and United were safe. He had missed a penalty for the Blades earlier in the season, but this time, in Wigan colours, he found the net (left). United have not been back to the Premier League since. “I never had any worries over taking penalties,” says Unsworth. “For me, it was a free shot from 12 yards, a free goal. I’m always amazed when I see strikers refusing to step up, to be honest. “That Wigan penalty (left), I never really considered its importance. To me, it was just a penalty that needed to be scored. I suppose when you look back on it, it was a really important one, but it didn’t feel that way at the time. “Leighton Baines is the man now, where penalties are concerned. He strikes the ball cleanly – a lefty, like me – and he always seems cool and calm. But like I say, to me, it amazes me that strikers don’t grab the ball whenever there’s a penalty.”
Though his career was forged more on stopping goals than scoring them, David Unsworth boasts one Premier League record to be proud of. With 38 goals, he ranks as the highest-scoring defender in Premier League history, comfortably clear of the likes of John Terry, Ian Harte and William Gallas.
Of course, 22 of those strikes came via the penalty spot. Not that Unsworth ever had a problem with stepping up from 12 yards of course.
David Unsworth
BORN 16/10/73, Chorley
CLUBS Everton 1991-97 (116 games, 11 league goals); West Ham 97-98 (32, 2); Everton 98-04 (188, 23); Porstmouth 04 (15, 2); Ipswich 05 (16, 1); Sheff Utd 05-07 (39, 4); Wigan 07 (10, 1); Burnley 07-08 (29, 1); Huddersfield 08-09 (4, 0)

Former Everton FC favourite David Unsworth hoping FA Cup success can persuade David Moyes to stay at Goodison Park
by Neil Jones, Liverpool Echo
Mar 7 2013
FA CUP success could be the catalyst to convince David Moyes to remain at Everton FC beyond the end of this season – according to former Blues favourite David Unsworth. Moyes’ Goodison Park future remains uncertain. His current contract expires in June, and the Scot, who is approaching 11 years in charge on Merseyside, has insisted he will not be making any decision on a new one until the end of the current campaign. Everton, of course, remain keen to tie the 49-year-old to a new long-term deal at the club. They host Wigan Athletic this weekend looking to book their place in the semi-finals of the FA Cup – and with it a trip to Wembley – for the second successive season.
And Unsworth, who was part of the Blues’ 1995 cup-winning side, believes glory this season could convince Moyes to extend his Goodison stay. He believes every Evertonian should be desperate to retain his services. “I don’t think there would be anything better than a trophy to convince David to stay,” Unsworth said. “As an Evertonian, and someone with a great affection for the club, I am desperate to see David Moyes stay at Everton. “He hasn’t signed a new deal yet, and he may well be waiting and seeing, but I’m sure if they can end the season with an FA Cup win, it will have a major bearing on his decision. It would be a massive factor. “He deserves success as much as any manager.
“The work he has put in at Everton over the last 11 years has been nothing short of phenomenal.
“I know (Everton chairman) Bill Kenwright will be desperate to keep David at the club, and pretty much every Evertonian feels the same. Bill will be doing everything he can to convince David, but the team can give him a big helping hand by carrying on their progress.”

David Moyes calls for a rocking Goodison Park when Everton take on Wigan in the FA Cup
by Ian Doyle, The Liverpool Post
Mar 7 2013
DAVID MOYES has urged Everton supporters to pack Goodison and roar their side back to Wembley this weekend. Moyes’s men aim to secure their fourth appearance at the national stadium in four years when they entertain Wigan Athletic in their FA Cup quarter-final. The Everton manager was hugely impressed by the turnout by the Goodison faithful for the recent midweek fifth-round replay win over Oldham. And he believes a full house for Saturday’s early kick-off can help seal a second successive semi-final appearance. “It was a terrific crowd for the Oldham game. It was a midweek match that was live on terrestrial television, which most people have in their homes, and for us to have nearly 33,000 at the game shows the level of support we have here at Everton.
“Filling the stadium and getting behind the players in the run-in could make the difference to a strong finish to the season. “For me, it has always been more important to be a good league side than a good cup side. But the FA Cup has got an excitement about it and everyone wants to get to the final, and we are no different.” Jan Mucha is on standby to once again deputise for Tim Howard in goal with the United States goalkeeper still struggling with the back injury suffered in the replay win over Oldham. Howard’s absence from last Saturday’s 3-1 home win over Reading meant he ended just two games short of equalling Neville Southall’s club record of 210 consecutive Premier League appearances. Everton’s triumph was only their second in seven league games and moved them just two points behind fifth-placed Arsenal in the one guaranteed Europa League qualification berth. And Leon Osman believes the Goodison outfit are rediscovering their verve following a difficult few months since the turn of the year. “We have had a bit of a sticky patch for the last month. You find it hard to go through a whole season without having one of those. Hopefully now we have got a few players back, Kevin Mirallas is in form, so hopefully we can get back up and running. “It wasn’t doom and gloom, though. We are still sixth in the league and in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup, so it shows the high standards that a defeat or two – one of which was to Manchester United – is counted as a sticky patch.” Everton were held to a 2-2 draw at Wigan in October before narrowly winning the Boxing Day return 2-1. And Osman added: “The two games we have had against Wigan have been right up there with the toughest we have had this season.
“We have taken four points from the games but they haven’t come easily and we know what to expect come Saturday.” Meanwhile, Everton youngster Jake Bidwell has had his loan spell at Brentford extended by a further month having already spent much of the past 18 months at the npower League One promotion hopefuls.

Double fitness boost for Latics ahead of Toffees test
7 Mar 2013 Manchester Evening News
Wigan have fit-again pair Adrian Lopez and Ryo Miyaichi available for first-team selection ahead of Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final at Everton. Wigan have fit-again pair Adrian Lopez and Ryo Miyaichi available for first-team selection ahead of Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final at Everton.
Defender Lopez and winger Miyaichi both featured in the Latics' Under-21s fixture against Nottingham Forest earlier this week as part of their rehabilitation from long-term injury lay-offs.
A substitute appearance in the 1-0 fourth-round win at Macclesfield in January is the only first-team action Lopez has seen since he suffered a hamstring tear in the 2-1 Barclays Premier League loss at Norwich in December. Miyaichi, on loan at Wigan from Arsenal for the season, has been sidelined by an ankle problem, with his last involvement with the senior side coming in a substitute run-out in the 3-0 away league defeat to Liverpool in November - a game in which he was making his comeback from a groin complaint. Asked this morning about the duo, Latics manager Roberto Martinez - whose squad has been hit by a host of injuries this season - said: "Adrian Lopez played 90 minutes for the Under-21s and Ryo played 45 minutes, so I do consider them fully fit and I think they are available now. "Emmerson Boyce and Antolin Alcaraz have come through our two previous games, against Reading and Liverpool, well enough. "So I do expect everyone to be available for selection apart from Ben Watson, Albert Crusat and Ivan Ramis. Probably this is the strongest we have been this season."

When Liverpol FC, Everton FC and Tranmere Rovers all played together - more than 40 years ago
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Mar 7 2013
EVERTON, Liverpool and Tranmere Rovers all play at home this weekend.
But for logistical – and televisual – reasons, all three will kick off at different times, and in Everton and Liverpool’s case, different days. It wasn’t always like that. When cup draws gave the Blues, the Reds and Rovers home ties on the same day, they just got on with it. And in 1972 a record 126,186 fans all attended matches in the six-mile radius that encompasses Anfield, Goodison and Prenton Park. It was February 5 when cup fever gripped Merseyside. More than 56,000 crammed into Anfield for an FA Cup fourthround tie with Leeds which finished goalless. Across the Park 45,000 fans watched Everton beat Walsall, while over the water a record attendance of 24,424 saw Tranmere draw 2-2 with Stoke City. There was never a suggestion of switching kick-off times. The only threat to all three teams kicking off at 3pm on the Saturday were the national power cuts which caused games in other regions to be brought forward. That’s 125,000 football fans all travelling, drinking and cheering in the city on the same day. And – judging by contemporary reports – without incident.
The Daily Post that Monday morning reported on record gate receipts at Anfield and Prenton Park and observed: “With an aggregate of 126,186 at the three ties on Saturday record figures were established. The highest previous total was 107,759 in March 1971, but on that occasion only Everton and Liverpool were involved.” It might even have been more had stadium capacities allowed. The Post added: “About 3,000 were locked out when the gates were closed at Anfield at 2.10pm. Almost all were Liverpool fans, the Leeds crowd having arrived three hours before the start.
“Many went to Goodison Park. Others stayed outside Anfield and followed the match by sound.”
The city had prior experience of staging big sporting events on the same day at the same time.
In 1971, FA Cup quarter-final day saw 54,731 spectators watch Liverpool draw with Spurs, while 53,028 witnessed Everton’s demolition of Colchester. Four years earlier more than 100,000 fans famously watched a fifth round FA Cup derby on Saturday March 11, 1967. Some 64,851 were inside Goodison to see Alan Ball’s winner – and such was the demand to see the game, in the days before wall to wall TV coverage, that screens were constructed at Anfield attracting another 40,000 supporters. When Everton and Liverpool were both involved in a tight title race in 1975, more than 80,000 supporters took a break from First Division football on January 4 as 48,723 watched Liverpool face Stoke and 34,519 saw Everton’s clash with Altrincham. In 1977 another quarter-final double-header saw Everton beat Derby County 2-0 in front of 42,409 fans while 55,881 crammed into Anfield to see Liverpool beat Middlesbrough by the same scoreline. Merseyrail coped just fine – with the trains to Bank Hall and Sandhills busier, but not crammed like cattle trucks. The last time the teams were at home on the same afternoon was January 3, 1981 – when 34,236 saw Everton beat Arsenal 2-0 while 37,170 Reds fans watched non-league Altrincham beaten 4-1. Perhaps the reasons for the abrupt end of same-day Cup-ties can be found in some online fan reminscences of that winter’s afternoon. “About five or 10 minutes from time a big mob left the Anny Road End to stroll across Stanley Park to ‘have a word’ with the Arsenal fans,” recalled a Reds fan. “Arsenal were losing and a load of them were trying to leave the ground early. They changed their mind pretty quickly when they saw what was waiting for them. “These days, plenty of Liverpool and Everton fans would most likely be meeting up to kick seven bells out of each other, rather than the visiting fans of the day. Which is sad.”

Everton legends Neville Southall and Kevin Ratcliffe to speak at Ormskirk FC’s sportsmens’ dinner
Mar 7 2013 by Tom Duffy, Ormskirk Advertiser
ORMSKIRK FC is holding an evening with Neville Southall and Kevin Ratcliffe at Goodison Park to raise money for grassroots football. The sportsmen’s dinner will be hosted by reformed hooligan Andy Nicholls and comedian Denny Waters. Neville Southall and Kevin Ratcliffe will both deliver after- dinner speeches, reflecting on their playing careers with Everton FC. Mr Southall, who made 578 appearances for Everton, was awarded the Football Writers Award footballer of the year in 1985, and 10 years later he received an MBE. Mr Ratcliffe captained Mr Southall in Everton’s legendary 1984/85 squad. Former Ormskirk FC player Kevin Duffy said: “It will be a cracking night and all funds will go in to grassroots football.”

Everton FC jury: Blues fans on Kevin Mirallas, Seamus Coleman and FA Cup showdown against Wigan
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Mar 7 2013
Everton FC juror Martin Shaughnessy: Where would Everton FC have been had Kevin Mirallas stayed fit? THE win over Oldham was followed up by a good result against Reading but yet again in both games we showed our fragility in defence. In both, the goals seem to be headers whereby the opposing player was left unmarked and unchallenged. Our players seem to look at each other in confusion as to what’s happened – has something changed on the training pitch? The big positive was the performances of both flanks – Coleman performed well both going forwards and in defence and Pienaar had his best game for a while. As for Mirallas, where could we be if he’d stayed fit? His skilful feet and positive running is something we’ve missed dearly and if he can stay fit, he’ll be key to defining how our season ends. The next two games are huge – a positive result against Wigan and then City and we’re in for a great couple of months! Everton FC juror David Taylor: Seamus Coleman may turn out to be the ultimate Moyes bargain-buy IT was good to get the Reading game successfully dispatched, albeit at a cost after Jagielka's injury, with a strong performance and good win. Mirallas and Pienaar were definitely more like their usual selves and having both wings as strong as that for the rest of the season would be a significant boost; Coleman continues to grow into the right-back position and may eventually turn out to be the ultimate Moyes bargain buy if he continues to develop as he is. Next up is the FA Cup and a great chance to get to Wembley again – although most would agree the semi-final should be held away from Wembley it is still great to go there in April and turn it Everton blue. With Wigan threatening to rotate their team and lower league opposition still in the hat, I am growing increasingly confident that the Moyes reign will finally see a piece of silverware.
Everton FC juror Matthew Jones: FA Cup tie against Wigan is massive for the club and David Moyes
SATURDAY’S clash with Wigan Athletic is a massive game for both Everton and David Moyes.
Win, and the fans will be in fine spirits for the rest of the campaign, especially with Wembley on the horizon; lose, and a season that promised so much could well flicker out with nothing to show for it.
The significance is compounded by the uncertainty surrounding Moyes and his contract situation. If we crash out of the cup then you have to wonder what the manager’s mindset will be.
This potentially represents his last chance of picking up some silverware as Everton boss.
It wouldn’t surprise me at all if the Everton boss shoehorned Phil Neville into the starting XI somewhere. The skipper’s big game experience could be vital to our cause.
Everton FC juror Chris Douglas: Win over Reading sets us up nicely for FA Cup showdown with Wigan Athletic
SATURDAY’S success was a much-needed three points despite the fact Reading were probably the weakest team to visit Goodison this season. A win is a win, however, and all this with a decidedly dodgy second string keeper playing his first league game. Kevin Mirallas is on form and this could make the difference come the end of the season. With his pace and finishing ability, he simply tore Reading to shreds. He was not the only standout performer, though. Steven Pienaar set up a goal and scored a cracker, and despite sometimes seemingly not knowing where he’s going, Seamus Coleman goes from strength to strength. The win sets us up nicely for Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final. If the real Everton stand up – despite the absence of Phil Jagielka – a tricky Wigan side should be dispatched and Wembley beckons.

Wigan Athletic defender Scharner eyes FA Cup progress
by Rob MacDonald. Thu 07 Mar 2013
Lancashire Click
Wigan Athletic defender Paul Scharner is hoping his side can get back on track by beating Everton in the FA Cup on Saturday. The Latics were roundly beaten 4-0 by Liverpool at the DW Stadium last time out. Roberto Martinez’s men are one game away from a trip to Wembley if they overcome the Toffees in their quarter final clash. The Austrian defender is hoping they can put the defeat to Liverpool behind them. "I think the game was one of those rare events in a season when nothing goes your way," Scharner told the club's official site. "We can't use that as an excuse though and we'll be making sure that in our next game we turn things around from this weekend. "We must just get past this game and start up again against Everton in the FA Cup next weekend." He added: "It's a good situation to have to break up the league fixtures with what could be a very significant moment in the history of the club. "If we can play a good game at Goodison Park and get a victory there then we will be able to pick up our confidence again and bring it back to the league games.
"It's vital that we prepare the best we can, not just for the Everton game but for every game from now until the end of the season."