THE haves and the have-nots will battle it out at Eastlands this evening. But while Manchester City can boast billionaire owners, it’s the qualities money cannot buy that David Moyes believes is allowing Everton to compete with such financial resource.
Only three places separate the teams in the Premier League table but there is a world of difference between their off-field financial clout and on-field expectations.
However, if there is any jealousy emanating from the away dugout, it will surely at least be matched by the envious glances of City manager Roberto Mancini towards the visitors.
Pressure continues to increase on the Italian to provide a tangible reward for the vast Abu Dhabi investment and seal the fourth and final Champions League qualification berth.
Everton, still with European aspirations of their own this season, were the last team to break the ‘big four’ cartel by claiming fourth place in 2005.
That was achieved by a strong team ethic and boardroom stability that continues to prove the foundation for ongoing progress under Moyes.
And the Goodison manager contends City’s squad does not possess the same unity with some players possibly unaware of what it means to play for their club.
“Collectivity is needed at any football club and you only get that through a little bit of time and a chance to work with the players,” says Moyes.
“Manchester City have bought players who have got undoubted talent who can win games, individuals who can make the difference, and given time they might have a team like Everton.
“But I’ve been fortunate and given eight years to mould together a team that knows what it means to play for Everton. What it means to supporters.
“I don’t know if all the Manchester City players know what it means to the Manchester City supporters, or what it means to play for Manchester City.
“I think the people who are here understand what’s required. That’s because we can’t suddenly go out and change things and make a difference.
“If you are not playing well here, you have to buck up and play well quickly because it’s not like we are going to bring someone else in. You have to do it yourself and get on with it.”
Asked if City’s riches has falsely raised expectations, Moyes responds: “Definitely. Even a club which has short-term ambitions must have long-term aims and know they want their club to be in a certain place.
“I am sure those clubs don’t want to be chopping and changing all the time. The continuity of employing from within can help clubs. The speed where people want the clubs is high.
“How many trophies are there to win? There are not enough. Then if the big owners spend money it puts them under a lot of pressure.
“Expectations are very big at Man City and that’s one thing they’ve got. Expectations have risen extremely high and I can say that’s without much real back-up or reasons. It’s more to do with the spending. A lot is expected by the media from the players and a lot is expected by the club as well.”
