Cleverley: No stopping Everton making Europe

Tom Cleverley says there is “no stopping” Everton qualifying for Europe, either through the Premier League or a cup. 

The 26-year-old returned to Roberto Martinez’s first team squad at the weekend, as an unused substitute in their 4-0 win over Aston Villa.

The former Manchester United man suffered ankle ligament damage after a tackle from Tottenham’s Eric Dier.

Speaking to The Sun, Cleverley outlined his belief that Everton can not only put up a genuine challenge for a Champions League spot but go on to win their first major trophy since 1995.

“Our results show there is no stopping us finishing in one of the European spots,” said Cleverley.

“Targets can change throughout the season, but that is realistic.

“Everton is a club that deserves cup runs — and the supporters deserve that as well.”

Cleverley featured at Wembley last season in the FA Cup final against Arsenal, while on loan at Aston Villa. And he believes Everton have the capability to go one better.

“We are in a Capital One Cup quarter-final now so hopefully we can go on and win it,” he said.

“It is important to me and all of the other players that we get to Wembley.”

With the European Championships coming up next summer, Cleverley feels optimistic about his chances of breaking into Roy Hodgson’s England squad, despite winning his last cap two years ago.

“My injury did get me down, especially because I thought I was in with a shout during the international break after that Tottenham game,” he added.

“It’s been playing on my mind. I’ve just got to get my head down now and get myself back in the Everton team — and then England as a result of doing that.”