that alone,” said the defender.

“The fact that we’re still in touch with the top sides without playing as well as we can is something we can be quite pleased with, and we’re still confident that we can go on a run of form and put together a long streak without losing.”

Everton are hopeful Victor Anichebe, the club’s only fit senior striker, will be available for Saturday’s game at Manchester City.

Anichebe succumbed late on to a persistent back injury against Villa but has been responding well to treatment this week.

However, Everton are taking a cautious approach with the fitness of Louis Saha, with the trip to Eastlands possibly too soon for the Frenchman.

Meanwhile, young goalkeeper Iain Turner would consider leaving Everton on loan in order to gain first-team experience.

The 24-year-old has previously spent temporary spells at Chester City, Doncaster Rovers, Wycombe Wanderers, Crystal Palace and Sheffield Wednesday.

And Turner said: “I would consider going out on loan, for sure. I’ve still got a few years left at Everton so, for now, I just want to get match practice and as many competitive games as possible – and I’ll go out on loan if that’s what the gaffer wants.

“January’s getting close so we’ll see what happens.”