Everton FC need Greek gods help against AEK Athens

02 December 2009 00:00
THERE have been few moments to savour during Everton's faltering season so far.[LNB]But back in September the Blues revived the spirit of their previous successful campaign and gave supporters something to smile about, with a convincing 4-0 win against AEK Athens at Goodison. Subsequently, circumstances have overtaken the optimism generated by the performance on that early autumn night, and even suggested it was a red herring.[LNB]Fast forward two months and David Moyes's men face the Greeks in their own back yard, struggling to recapture their verve and confidence, and not guaranteed to progress in the Europa League.[LNB]Every step forward is tempered with new negatives. The Blues play some of their best football of the season in a derby they are unfortunate to lose, but take heart. The same personnel were ready to take on AEK Athens. Then Sylvain Distin's hamstring is tweaked and suddenly his manager is trying to plot a victory with the prospect of playing a career right-back at centre-half alongside a largely untested rookie.[LNB]And Everton's manager knows his team face an AEK side who are a very different prospect at home.[LNB]Speaking at the impressive Olympic Stadium, he said: 'AEK are a different team here. They beat Benfica at this stadium and we know it will be a much harder task at their own pitch.'[LNB]But when asked to comment on the financial benefits of Europa League football after Everton's figures were released yesterday, the Scot was philosophical.[LNB]Tonight's opponents are in a far worse financial situation than the Blues, who released figures showing record turnover but an overall loss in profit.[LNB]AEK are in the midst of deepening financial crisis. Major shareholder Nikos Notias has embarked on a worldwide search for an investor who could pull the club out of its troubles, as rumours abound that their players are not being paid properly and club morale is low.[LNB]'It's the world we are in just now. The finances are difficult,' said Moyes.[LNB]'It's the same for all football clubs, not just in our country but every country - proving the point with the team we are playing.[LNB]'But it's not all about making money - it's about winning a trophy. I was delighted when we qualified for the Europa League and I'd be delighted if we could qualify again. If I can't be in the Champions League, I want to be in the Europa.'

Source: Liverpool_Echo