Barry wants Everton to push for Europe

Midfielder Gareth Barry sees no reason why Everton cannot qualify for Europe if they continue on their current good run of form.

Ronald Koeman’s team are currently on a seven-match league unbeaten run, and Barry says the form, combined with new signings and young talent has put Everton in a good position.

Barry has emphasised the importance of staying on a winning run as they continue to target for a top six finish this season.

“If we can go on a little bit of a run and finish the season strongly then there is no reason why we can’t catch up with one of those European spots,” he added.

“If you are going to achieve anything then you need that competition for places all over the pitch.

“As a club we need that, and it is fantastic to come in and work knowing that you need to be on your game at all times to be in the team.”

(Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

In Barry’s first season at Everton in 2013/14 the Blues won eight of their last 11 games to see them surge to more than 70 points and the 35-year-old sees similarities between then and now.

He said: “There are certainly comparisons to be made between the run we are in now and those we enjoyed in my first season here when we had that great finish to the season and collected 72 points, which is a massive number.

“You get that same feeling around the Club now that there was around back then.”