Everton can still qualify for Europe this season because they haven’t hit top gear. But they need to be wary about breaking their pay structure if considering a permanent move this summer for loan star Jack Grealish.

That’s the verdict of former Blues left winger Kevin Kilbane, who made 121 appearances for the club, scoring five goals, after being snapped up by David Moyes in 2003.

Everton remain in the top half of the Premier League table ahead of their first game in 13 days against Manchester United on Monday night and Kilbane, who was speaking courtesy of BestBettingBonuses.co.uk, told the ECHO: “It’s realistic to think Everton could qualify for Europe. Being in catch-up, it’s always hard for a side that’s in the position and looking over their shoulder a little bit and able to grind out results.

“You can grind out results better when you’re in front because you’ve got to chase in...