Allardyce: At least we’re above Albion

SAM ALLARDYCE has curiously claimed that his success can be measured by the gap Everton have put between themselves and West Bromwich Albion. Everton’s manager has so far failed to impress the fans but suggested before today’s Mersey derby that an indicator of his achievements since being appointed on November 30 was the fact his team have leapfrogged West Brom. Everton, however, have not been below Albion since the last weekend in October and on the day he signed a contract, they had 15 points and were in 13th position — three points and four places ahead. Allardyce (right) said: ‘I don’t think I could have done much more with the staff I’ve got in the period of time I’ve been working here with these

players, who were in an extremely difficult position before I arrived. For instance, West Bromwich Albion were above us when I arrived. Look where we are now and look where West Brom are.’ One statistic not lost on Allardyce was the fact that a Liverpool victory at Goodison Park today would mean Everton will have had the same number of home league defeats as home victories against their neighbours — 34. ‘I don’t think the players need any extra motivation,’ said Allardyce. ‘I don’t think that is something we can let happen, if at all possible. I hope by the end of the game it’s not a factor.’ This has been a season without any charm whatsoever for Everton but a derby success would provide some kind of solace and Turkey striker Cenk Tosun is aiming to deliver some hope to fans at Goodison. ‘I accept you can say we did not meet expectations this season,’ said Tosun. ‘We got knocked out of Europe quite early and it looks impossible to qualify for Europe next year. ‘So, God willing, this will be the game that is the highlight for the supporters, the players, the club. For everyone.’