Everton

Steven Naismith hails "fantastic" Everton season

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 26 May 2014

Everton striker Steven Naismith believes that his side had a "fantastic" first season under Roberto Martinez despite missing out on Champions League qualification.

Everton striker Steven Naismith has expressed his belief that his side had a "fantastic" first season under manager Roberto Martinez.

The Toffees made a strong push for Champions League qualification during the 2013-14 campaign but were ultimately forced to settle for fifth having tailed off during the latter stages.

Naismith admitted that missing out on a spot in the top four was disappointing for the team, but was happy with their overall performance as well as his own personal contribution.

"We were disappointed at the end of the season, but when you step back and look at it as a whole, it's been a fantastic first season under the new manager who has come in and changed things totally," Naismith is quoted as saying by PA.

"For me personally I was delighted with my contribution, especially in the second half when I played as many games as I would have liked while scoring goals and setting up chances as well."

Naismith scored nine goals in 36 appearances in all competitions for Everton last season.