Yakubu feels end of season pressure

02.05.2008

EVERTON striker, Yakubu Aiyegbeni is feeling the pressure as the Toffees continue their push for UEFA Cup qualification, but insists he and his team mates are all thriving on the end-of-season tension.

David Moyes’ side is currently fifth as the campaign approaches its conclusion, but has Aston Villa breathing down its necks, vying for the final European spot.

And while Martin O’Neill’s side has a comparatively easy run-in, Everton must negotiate Arsenal away before facing a resurgent Newcastle at Goodison Park.

“I am enjoying it and I like the pressure,” Yakubu told the official club website. “When you are under pressure you show what you can do, so you have to believe in yourself.”

“I have played for a club that has struggled with relegation and I know what it takes now to fight for a place in Europe. It is the same and I believe with the players we have got we can stay in fifth.

“We have worked so hard from the beginning of the season and if we don’t get fifth then we will be very disappointed. I still believe we can finish fifth in the league and be in Europe next season.”

Everton drew 2-2 with rivals Villa last weekend after twice taking the lead, but top-scorer Yakubu insists the players are not dwelling on an opportunity missed.

He added: “We have to move on and think about Arsenal and Newcastle to get the points. “The Emirates is a good stadium and they are doing so well. We will give everything and we don’t want to lose. They are a good team and we respect them, but I still believe we will finish fifth.”