View: Everton's hopes for European football: Arsenal defeat not the be-all and end-all - here's why

Everton may have some supporters who are feeling down about their chances of reaching a spot for European football following the 2-0 defeat to Arsenal on Saturday.

But David Moyes may not be feeling that way, as the Blues still have plenty of football to be played from now until the end of the season.

The Toffees were so close to bringing a point back to Merseyside, and had that happened, the result would have been celebrated like a victory.

Everton’s league success this season has been no fluke, and what Moyes will have seen from the touchline at the Emirates Stadium will have been more than enough for him to keep his confidence about the task at hand.

Why David Moyes had plenty of positives to take vs Arsenal

Everton’s loss to Arsenal had positives to take, with standout performances from the likes of Tim Iroegbunam and Michael Keane, two who have been inconsistent at times.

Not only that, but the Blues proved that they have what it takes to get something at arguably the hardest ground in the country right now, and were only beaten late on in the game.

Moyes should be able to take a whole deal of confidence that they can get a result against anyone, as they fared better than most against the Premier League leaders.

• Everton are still eighth in the league
• They face half of the ‘big six’ in their remaining league games

Before the game against the Gunners, James Tarkowski admitted how close the Blues are to achieving their ultimate goal.

Most of Everton’s upcoming games are all against teams who are playing for something, so it very well may come down to a matter of mentality.

Moyes’ players have shown that they have strong mental health in abundance this season.

The advantages Everton have heading into biggest game of season

Everton’s first game back after the international break is perhaps their biggest game of the season. Brentford

The Toffees have a huge chance to get a result against Chelsea before then, but the break could come to their advantage.

Brentford are in great form and face Wolves at home before they go against the Toffees in what could be a huge race for a European spot, but the pause in club football could halt their momentum.

By the time the fixture comes around, Moyes could also benefit from the return of Carlos Alcaraz, who the Everton boss has confirmed to be getting closer to full fitness.

Not only the Argentine, but Branthwaite should be back by then, as the break will also give the centre-back a chance to iron out any of the suspected hamstring tightness that he may have.

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