Former Everton striker Kevin Campbell believes that Nikica Jelavic could fire the Toffees back into the Champions League next season.
David Moyes’ side missed out on Europa League qualification by one spot in 2011-12, despite their late surge of good form. Croatia international Jelavic was key to this late run, scoring 11 goals in 16 appearances as he impressed after his January move from Rangers.
Campbell told the club’s official website: “Jelavic has been scoring goals and if that can continue then why not even go for a Champions League place?
“Everton are one of the only teams to break that monopoly and I don’t see why they can’t do it again if they can start better.
“Everton belong in Europe. They have so much history, a great support and are a big name.
“[Jelavic] has been a revelation. It is nice to have someone who can take the goalscoring mantle on as the club really needed someone who could put the ball in the back of the net on a regular basis – having a player who can do that will move things forward.
“I was lucky enough to be a part of things at Everton and it is good to see Jelavic is scoring goals and becoming that new Everton goalscorer.
“The fans here love someone who puts the ball in the back of the net. There have been some very big names here in the past and there is no better feeling than scoring goals at Goodison Park.”