Everton

Phil Neville puts strong start down to stability at Everton

By Liam Power, Reporter | 24 August 2012

Everton skipper Phil Neville thinks that early recruitment and team stability helped the Toffees beat Manchester United in their opening match of the season.

Everton captain Phil Neville thinks that the club's strong opening performance of the season can be put down to a stable pre-season.

The Toffees made a brilliant start with a 1-0 win against Manchester United, featuring a superb display from goalscorer Marouane Fellaini.

Neville told reporters that a summer of relative calm in the transfer market has created a positive, relaxed atmosphere at Goodison Park.

He said: "We have looked into many things but I think it is the recruitment which has been most important. When it is done early there is not the uncertainty of who we are bringing in or who is leaving.

"Last season the panic and nervousness of the fans spread to the team and I have to admit the team were probably anxious as well.

"That calmness has gone into us all because we have recruited early and with eight days to go in the transfer window there is no panic if we don't bring anyone in."

David Moyes has signed Steven Pienaar, Steven Naismith and Kevin Mirallas this summer, with the only major sale being Jack Rodwell's move to Manchester City.

Everton play their first away game of 2012-13 against Aston Villa on Saturday.