The international break is over, and the Premier League's final sprint is here. For Everton, a massive seven-game stretch awaits, presenting a golden opportunity to cap a season of progress with a return to European football. The anxiety of past relegation battles has been replaced by genuine ambition, a testament to the stability brought by manager David Moyes.

Since his return 15 months ago, Moyes has instilled a clear vision: Everton belongs among Europe's elite. With last season's survival secured, that goal has been the driving force. Now, the excitement of potentially achieving it has completely overtaken any early-season caution about moving too fast.

The run-in is brutally tough, starting with a pivotal clash this weekend against Brentford. Sitting level on points, this is a true six-pointer in the race for European qualification—a "dare not lose" fixture where momentum is everything. Then, of course, looms the historic first Merseyside derby at our new stadium, with local bragging rights and crucial league position potentially on the line against Liverpool.

This is what competitive football is all about. After several stressful seasons, having a mouth-watering finale focused on achievement, not survival, is a refreshing change. Where we finish is still unwritten, but the journey is now one of belief and possibility—a far cry from the recent past and exactly where this proud club aims to be.