- Everton were handed a 10-point deduction for breaking financial rules
Everton favourite Lee Carsley insisted that Goodison Park will come alive after the unprecedented 10-point deduction handed down by the Premier League.
Carsley, who spent six years with the Toffees, is back at the stadium for the final time tonight when England’s Under 21s take on Northern Ireland.
And the 49-year-old believes the disciplinary proceedings will galvanise the area and players as they battle survival.
‘Obviously it’s a blow but playing for this club, we seem to do well when our backs are against the wall,’ the ex-midfielder said.
‘I wouldn’t expect anything different from that to be fair. The connection between the team and the fans seems very strong at the minute and I feel they’ve got the best chance to win when that’s aligned.
‘It’s an intimidating place for the opposition – I’ve seen both sides, where it’s really difficult for the opposition but it’s just as difficult for the home team if you’re not playing well or they feel there’s a lack of effort. It’s always easier when the fans are behind the team.’
Sean Dyche’s side, who are now joint bottom with Burnley, have won four of the last seven in the league and Carsley believes he is the perfect manager to steer them clear of danger.
‘He seems to get the club,’ Carsley added. ‘I read and listen to a lot of the things he talks about in terms of values, behaviours and environment. That’s exactly what the fans want.
‘The team were in a good position, playing well – they’d picked up and put themselves in a really good position.’
