Everton manager Roberto Martinez has admitted that his side's inconsistent results is a concern for him.
The Toffees have won just one of their last five Premier League games following Saturday's defeat at Southampton, which leaves them 11th in the Premier League table.
However, Martinez is confident that the team can challenge for a Champions League spot in the second half of the season.
"At this stage you could feel that the first three positions were taken but I don't think that is the case this time," he told the Liverpool Echo.
"Southampton and West Ham, for me, have been the best teams so far this season and there are still a lot of points to fight for.
"Teams are going to take a lot of points from each other and, from our point of view, it is about getting a good run of results and making sure we reach a good level and giving ourselves an opportunity to finish as high as we can. Saturday was a big disappointment, don't get me wrong."
Everton host Stoke City on Boxing Day.
Steven Toplis
