Martinez: Beating Arsenal would give Everton ‘incredible momentum’
Everton manager Roberto Martinez reckons the Toffees's clash against Arsenal could have a huge bearing on top-four race
Roberto Martinez believes Everton’s clash against Arsenal could have a huge bearing on the race for a fourth-place finish.
The Toffees have the chance to cut Arsenal’s lead to a single point in the hunt to secure the final Champions League spot.
Arsenal are on a three-game winless run ahead of their trip to Goodison Park on Sunday, whilst Everton have won their last four outings.
We have earned the right to fight for that position which is a very good season so far
Roberto Martinez
And Martinez feels beating the Gunners would help to nurture growing confidence amongst his players that they can finish in the top four.
“It could have a huge bearing. We’re on a winning streak and we can carry on that confidence we’ve built internally,” Martinez told his pre-match media conference.
“It allows us to go into the next 18 points with incredible momentum. So from that point of view, it is very important.
“You’re fighting with a direct rival that we admire and respect. They’ve been in this situation every season and found a way to get into those top four positions.
“They’re one of the best teams in terms of consecutively getting into the top four in Europe.”
Whilst Everton are yet to taste success under Martinez this season, the Toffees boss feels being in a position to launch a serious challenge for a fourth-place finish is a commendable achievement.
“What we have achieved is the chance to mathematically fight for a top-four finish and that’s a remarkable achievement,” Martinez added.
He continued: “Every year in the Premier League, if you had 60 points or more after 31 games, you’re always guaranteed to finish in top four.
“You have five teams that have done that and it means one team is going to miss out.
“We have earned the right to fight for that position which is a very good season so far.”
