Everton boss David Moyes has praised his players for what has so far been a tremendous season and is targeting a top-four finish for the Toffees.

"The players have been terrific. We have got through a difficult few weeks with problems over injuries and maintained our position in the table," he said.

"I still believe fourth place is up for grabs, it will be hard to catch Aston Villa with them eight points ahead of us, but it is not something we will give up on.

"We are sixth at the moment, and that means a European spot now after Manchester United's (Carling Cup final) win at Wembley on Sunday.

"But I am looking much higher than that, it will be a tall order but not out of reach. If we can maintain our form of the last three months, we will not be far short of fourth or fifth.

"The players deserve the credit. If it was team spirit it was based on, Everton would be top of the league and probably European champions too.

"I gauge my players on what they give up for the team. We like solo stars who make things happen, but we love people who work for the team and their team-mates. That is what breeds spirit."