Clearly the burning question, though, is just what alterations to the rulebook are necessary in order for Everton to become genuine title contenders again? It’s a tricky one.

Perhaps if a premium was placed on pitch invading, or slating full-backs? Or if ‘not singing’ was more valued, that would be good, especially if by the same token the division’s most ‘witty’ song-smiths were instantly relegated – farewell Manchester United and Liverpool.

We can but dream. As it stands we must persevere with this old-fashioned and quite frankly unfair ‘points for winning games’ system, starting with the match at Goodison on Sunday. To say it’s not one that sets the imagination alight is probably a bit of an understatement. We could certainly do with the three points, to quash any thoughts that Steve Bruce’s men have of overtaking us in sixth place, but in reality if feels as if all eyes are on the semi-final now.

Louis Saha still thinks we might challenge for fourth place, bless him, but the defeat at Fratton Park the other week probably put paid to those ambitions. Aston Villa have fallen apart, but it seems unlikely that Arsenal will do the same – certainly not to the extent that this Everton team will make up seven points on them.

Recent seasons have seen us finish rather meekly, due to our small squad, and the same could very well happen again. Hopefully there’s enough in the tank though to hold on to a UEFA place and raise ourselves for a game (or two) at Wembley.