Moyes: We will have big struggle to finish in top ten

EVERTON manager David Moyes has deliberately lowered expectations this season by admitting his side could struggle to finish in the top 10 of the Barclays Premier League.

Financial restraints at Goodison Park have meant the Toffees boss has been unable to bring in any new players. But he has had to watch the clubs who finished below them last season make considerable investment.

“I think we are going to have a big struggle to finish in the top 10 this season,” said the Scot, who is preparing for a delayed start to the season against newcomers QPR after last weekend’s opener at Spurs was postponed because of the London riots.

“It is well-documented what has happened in terms of clubs buying to improve and I don’t just mean the top clubs. I can see the likes of West Brom, Stoke, Fulham and Sunderland have all tried to improve and the reason they have done that is to finish where Everton can.

“I am incredibly ambitious and want to win something with Everton. If we can get the players I have brought here firing we have a good side.”

After falling a match behind to their rivals Moyes said his players were raring to go after a hastily-arranged friendly against Bohemians in Dublin last Monday.

“The players are ready to play. We had some who needed the extra week to get some more training in,” he added.

“I have a brilliant group of players, a really good team and if we could add to it we would like to do so but not every manager is lucky enough to have millions. We may miss out on little bits and pieces but the one thing Everton will be is competitive in the Premier League.

Meanwhile QPR manager Neil Warnock believes his side can give Everton a “good game” this afternoon, but admits reinforcements are needed if they are to stave off relegation. The west Londoners’ 15-year absence from the Premier League came to an end last weekend, although they got off to the worst possible start against Bolton as they were trounced 4-0 at Loftus Road.

“It is a difficult one. I won’t have any new players by this weekend so we’re going to have to really [raise our game]. They are a good side, Everton. They didn’t play last week so they will be desperate to start off well.