Everton - 2011/12

I've been as guilty as most for moaning all summer about our board and their inability to provide funds for strengthening but . . .

I'm now excited for the new season. I just can't wait for it to start.

We do have good players that big teams would love. We do have team spirit which can't not be bought or developed in the short term. We do have Moyes who has spent the past decade out perfroming most on a small budget.

I can't wait to see Barkley and some of our other young players.

I have hopes that Gueye can develop into a talent.

I have always hated the hype that surrounds Rodwell and I have never seen anything on the pitch to justify it but that's not Rodwell's fault and I trully hope he comes through this season.

A fit Fellaini makes us a totally different side as he's the only players we have who can command the midfield and break up play effectively.

Arteta has almost been written off but if he can get fit again, hopefully he can get back to where he was.

The forward line is a concern but hopefully Saha stays fit for long periods and Beckford goes on a hot run.

I feel proud that we're still able to compete in the top 8 after the absolute fortunes that other teams have spent and wasted.

Any big team coming to Goodison will know they've been in a match and I just hope we can rediscover the knack of beating the "smaller teams" who we are expected to beat.

There is a lot wrong with Everton off the pitch at the moment but on the pitch we can feel proud as we over achieve.

A big worry of mine is that we would go stale - Rodwell, Barkley et al can help us out there.

Players like Cahill and Arteta are not getting any younger and we should enjoy them while we can.

I grew up as a teenager in the 1990's and I remember the Mike Walker and Walter Smith sides.

It's frustrating that we can't compete off the pitch with our finances at the moment but the pride I get walking to Goodison Park can't be bought.

Nil Satis Nisi Optimum