Source: Daily_Mail
Everton pragmatic as they prepare for Blackburn test
Everton full-back Leighton Baines expects a different test entirely against Blackburn tomorrow following the Europa League victory over AEK Athens.
Although they went into the match on the back of three defeats in four league games, David Moyes' side cruised home 4-0.
Baines wants more of the same when they return to domestic business but cautioned: 'This will be a much tougher test. It is always difficult in the Premier League and Blackburn will put us under a lot more pressure than AEK did.
'The match will be much more physical but one we are looking forward to after such a good win. 'It is different when you play in a European game as you get a bit more time on the ball and we played some decent football. We had a professional attitude.'
Neill has signed a one-year deal after his contract expired with West Ham.
Baines said: 'Lucas is a good signing - he is very experienced and can play in a number of positions.
'He is a top international player and I am sure he will be a really good acquisition by the club.'
Three of the goals in midweek were set up by former Lokomotiv Moscow winger Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Baines is already enjoying their partnership on the left flank.
'It is nice to link up with Billy - he is good footballer and a very intelligent one as well,' said Baines.
Midfielder Steven Pienaar wants Everton to build on that victory and climb the table.
He said: 'It is important for us to keep winning now and stay focused. All the guys are going to have a role to play and we have to take that form into the Blackburn game.
'There was a lot to be happy about. We kept a clean sheet and if you don't concede goals, you have much more of a chance of winning games.
'It's annoying when you look at the table see us down at the bottom. We need to get some points.'
Full back Tony Hibbert is available again after being suspended for the Athens match as is central defender John Heitinga, who was ineligible for the game.
