Defeat in the FA Cup final at the hands of Chelsea was not the most positive end to what was otherwise an extremely positive season for David Moyes’ charges. A fifth place finish qualifying for European football next season was a major feat given the catalogue of injuries to key players that Moyes had to contend with.

With Aussie Tim Cahill having to play as main striker for a large part of the campaign due the absence of Yakubu and Vaughan to name but two, to finish ‘the best of the rest’ has given the Goodison Park outfit the confidence to believe that they can challenge the dominance of the top four next time around. Moyes will no doubt look to Bill Kenwright to free up funds to further strengthen the squad but with Joseph Yobo, Phil Jagielka and Tim Howard all committing themselves to the blue side of Stanley Park together with the offer of Europa League football, the Scot must be looking forward to the new season more than most.

If Moyes can get his squad fit, and add to it with some quality individuals, then Merseyside may well have two teams making a real push for honours next year.