Southampton 2 Everton 0: Adam Lallana eyes top-four challenge

Adam Lallana believes Southampton can challenge for a European spot next season if the Saints invest in the summer after a comfortable win against Everton.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side took the lead inside 54 seconds when Everton centre-half Antolin Alcaraz headed Rickie Lambert’s cross past Toffees goalkeeper Tim Howard.

We have top players, a top manager and a top team. If we can add to that in the transfer market and keep progressing I am sure we can compete (for European football)

Adam Lallana

The Saints doubled their lead at the half-hour mark again in fortuitous circumstances as Republic of Ireland defender Seamus Coleman headed into his own net.

And Manchester United target Lallana believes the Saints can take confidence from their victory over fourth-place chasing Everton, backing the south-coast club to challenge for a European spot next term.

“Everton are fighting for a Champions League spot so to win 2-0 is a great result,” Lallana told BBC Sport.

“I just want to enjoy my football. That’s when I am at my happiest.

“Playing in a youthful team like this I feel like one of the experienced players.

“I am concentrating on the last two games and then I will sit down in the summer and see what happens.

“We have top players, a top manager and a top team. If we can add to that in the transfer market and keep progressing I am sure we can compete (for European football).”