Lofty finish still the aim

Joleon Lescott claims Everton still aim to break into the top four in the Premiership despite the club's slow start to the new season.

A run of eight points in as many games at the start of the campaign had the fans looking down the table rather than up, but three straight wins has seen them climb to within three points of a Champions League place.

Everton would have to oust one of the 'big four' if they are to achieve their aim but Lescott claims confidence is once again flowing through the squad.

He told the Post: "Expectation levels have come down in terms of our start to the season.

"But we are still confident about what we can do and what we are aiming for and that is to finish fourth, if not that then as high as possible. We always had a good squad and key players are playing well now.

"It just bodes well for the team and gives us extra confidence looking around our players.

"I think it was a bit silly to start talking about relegation so early in the season and it is a bit silly to start talking about Champions League now.

"We have got to keep our feet on the ground and we know what we want to achieve and if we all push in the same direction I am sure we will achieve it."