Harrying the opposition paying dividends for Moyes's men

Feb 7 2006 By Mark Lawrenson, Daily Post

DAVID MOYES just needs to keep reminding his players of the virtues that have seen them turnaround their fortunes after slumping into the relegation places earlier in the season.

An unbeaten start to 2006 has seen Everton at their scrapping best, and that is in no way being disrespectful to the players.

Everton are at their best harrying the opposition, working hard for each other and being aggressive in the right areas and at the right times.

It has been heartening to see local players like Tony Hibbert and Leon Osman playing their part in the recent revival, while the return of Alan Stubbs to Goodison is proving an astute move.

He is back where he wants to play, determined to prove he is worth a longer stay and if he proves a big influence in half a dozen games between now and the end of the season then it has been a deal well done.

• Mark Lawrenson was talking to RICHARD WILLIAMSON