Everton FC latest: Philippe Senderos steeled for first-team fight

Jan 26 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post

PHILIPPE SENDEROS formally completed his loan move to Everton yesterday – then admitted he faces a challenge to break into the first team.

The 24-year-old will spend the rest of the season at Goodison having agreed a temporary switch from Arsenal.

Senderos will go straight into the squad for tomorrow’s visit of Sunderland after watching from the stands as David Moyes’s side crashed out of the FA Cup at home to Birmingham City on Saturday.

But with Everton on a seven-match unbeaten Premier League run, the Switzerland international accepts he must earn a place in the starting line-up.

“I am delighted to be an Everton player for the remainder of the season,” said Senderos.

“I can’t wait to get stuck in and play for Everton. Hopefully I can get some first-team football in during my time here.

“I am here with high hopes and hopefully I can fulfil them.”

Senderos, who has played just twice for Arsenal this season, made 15 appearances on loan at AC Milan last season.

And he added: “I have spoken to David Moyes and he hopes to give me opportunities here (at Everton). Hopefully I can grab that opportunity and stay in the team.

“Everton’s form over the last few weeks has been better and they are getting stronger.”