Steven Naismith says Everton could push for Champions League spot

Steven Naismith believes Everton could emerge as contenders for a Champions League spot with a good points return over the festive period.

The Goodison Park side currently sit ninth in the Premier League table, seven points behind fourth-top Manchester United.

They have, however, lost only three times and are undefeated in their last seven outings in all competitions, albeit four of those fixtures have ended in draws.

Naismith is reluctant to talk up Everton's hopes of getting into the main European competition but says it is in their thoughts.

He told Sky Sports News HQ: "I think it's got to be an aim at the moment but not one you concentrate on too much. I don't think we're specifically going to say we are aiming for that.

"You've got to just take the games as they come and at the end of every month, you look at it and see where you're at. Everybody has taken points off everybody.

"It's not just an issue of who will win the league but all the European places are up for grabs and there's nobody specific you think is going to run away with it.

"It's been a very good start. We're coming into the Christmas period where it's tough and you want to come out with a lot of points.

"When you come out of that, that's where you will look to see where your season is going to go. We've got a massive squad of quality talent, guys who are a joy to watch training every day.

"So far, we've played some very good football. The last couple of results have been frustrating in the league but we've a fantastic squad."

Naismith, speaking as he sponsored a Christmas lunch for the Glasgow charity Loaves and Fishes, concedes he may have to reassess his future at Everton.

The 29-year-old has not started a game for his club since he was substituted at half-time in a 3-0 home defeat to Manchester United on October 17.

This weekend Everton play Norwich, a side who were linked with a move for Naismith in the summer.

He added: "It's frustrating when you're not playing and it's hard to deal with in terms of building up in the week then adapting your training when you don't play so you are still fit and ready.

"I think the manager had mentioned about sitting down and talking to me and I'm sure he will do that. At the moment I just want to concentrate on helping Everton as a team.

"It's a fantastic club. I feel really part of it but - like any footballer - when you're not playing you definitely need to look at all your options and see what is going to happen."