Roberto Martinez Confident Arsenal Will Drop Points in Season Run-in
Everton manager Roberto Martinez believes his side still have their fate in their own hands in the race for the final Champions League qualifying spot.
The Toffees passed up the opportunity to move back into fourth place at the expense of Arsenal after goals from Jason Puncheon, Scott Dann and Cameron Jerome saw Crystal Palace claim a memorable 3-2 victory in what was just Everton's second home loss of the season.
With four games remaining further twists and turns are expected but with Everton facing the more troublesome fixture schedule with games against both Manchester clubs, Arsenal would appear to have the edge once again a point ahead of their rivals.
However, Martinez expects Arsene Wenger's side to drop points in their end of season run-in.
"I don't think Arsenal will get full points from now until the end of the season," the Everton manager said. "So one point and a better goal difference for us means we are still very much relying on what we do.
"The table looks like it (fourth place) is out of our hands but I believe it is still in our hands and will rest on the amount of points we get until the end of the season.
"We will give everything we've got to get as many points between now and the end of the season. It is a disappointment, but it is still a unique opportunity. I am encouraged we can turn the corner if we win on Sunday."
Arsenal face their FA Cup final opponents Hull City on Sunday before hosting Newcastle United and West Brom in back to back home fixtures before visiting relegation threatened Norwich City on the final day of the season.
Meanwhile Everton welcome Manchester United to Goodison Park in David Moyes' first game back at his former club on Sunday. Martinez's side then face a trip to Southampton before games against Manchester City at home and Hull City away.
© Copyright IBTimes 2024. All rights reserved.