Tarkowski Outlines Everton’s European Target After Newcastle Win

James Tarkowski has reiterated Everton’s aims to qualify for European football next season.

The Toffees sit eighth in the table after Tuesday night’s 2-0 victory over Burnley at Hill Dickinson Stadium, the win marking back-to-back triumphs for David Moyes’ side, who impressively overcame Newcastle United at St. James' Park last weekend.

Skippering the side, Tarkowski nodded the Blues ahead on Tuesday. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall added a second after half-time to seal a richly-deserved three points. 

“I don’t score enough, so I’m pleased with [the goal],” said Tarkowski, speaking after the game. “We're pleased to get a win here. 

“Our away form’s been incredible, but we’ve not got enough points here. Today, [we’ve got] three points and a clean sheet.”

As mentioned by the Everton defender, the Blues have enjoyed plenty of success on the road this term, with only Arsenal (29) picking up more away points than Everton (24) in the Premier League this season. 

Moyes’ side have been keen to replicate those away displays at Hill Dickinson Stadium – and they did just that through Tuesday’s dominant win – a fifth home victory in the league this campaign.

Asked about carrying the spirit of Goodison Park into the Blues’ new world-class waterfront home, Tarkowski responded: “It’s already been here, to be fair. 

“We just let ourselves down in a few games, conceding rubbish goals. But today, two goals and a clean sheet – I can’t be happier.”

With just nine Premier League games remaining, Everton are a point off seventh and two points from sixth position.

Everton’s ambitions are clear, says Tarkowski, adding: “We’re right in touching distance of the European spots.  

“There are nine games to go, so [we need to] stick some wins on the board and see where we end up. We’re chasing the teams above us rather than looking below.”