David Moyes has hinted that Everton’s Premier League safety is close.
Saturday’s draw with Arsenal moved Moyes’ side up to 14th as they opened up a 15-point cushion to the relegation zone with seven games remaining.
Previously, the Blues’ manager insisted the battle for survival was far from over as he aims to ensure they move into Bramley-Moore Dock as a top-flight entity.
But Moyes suggested post-match that he is now starting to believe in his initial remit by revealing plans to visit the new stadium within the next week.
He said: “Obviously, mathematically we’re not safe yet.
“Mathematically, we’re not safe yet but I’m hoping to take a visit to the stadium this week, which would indicate that I think we’re pretty close.
“I want us to keep getting ready for Premier League football. I know I’ve got a bit to do [still] and hope I’m not speaking too soon.
“At the moment, when I came in a few months ago and you’d have given me 40 points, I’d have taken you out for a drink.”
Everton’s hard-fought point with the Gunners came just days after they slipped to a narrow defeat against Liverpool in the 246th Merseyside derby.
Further challenges will come thick and fast during the season’s remaining weeks with Nottingham Forest, Manchester City and Chelsea all up ahead.
“I’m actually looking forward to the games to see how we are going to compete,” added Moyes..
“I didn’t really like the first half but in both games, we tried to show our resilience, we can stick at it and created chances in both games.
“Before I came in, that was one of the big things being said; ‘how are you going to score goals?’, ‘how are you going to create any chances?’
“Even on Saturday when we didn’t play particularly well in the first half, we made one or two opportunities.
“We’re looking forward to playing the games and I’m happy to find out all about the players and see what they can do.”