Everton have no "divine right" to fifth place in the Barclays Premier League, according to manager David Moyes.
The Toffees have spent most of the season in the top five - they were challenging near neighbours Liverpool for the final Champions League place until last weekend - but could now find themselves overtaken as the campaign reaches its climax.
The Toffees turn out at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal on Sunday before facing Newcastle next weekend.
And if that was not enough, Everton's record against the Gunners in London is woeful, having not won since 1996.
Moyes believes his side has been under scrutiny more than the other challengers for fifth place, which has placed them at a disadvantage.
"We have been fourth or fifth all season and that carries its own pressure. Sometimes it is easier coming from behind with less pressure," he said.
"Nevertheless, we have to try to hang in there and try to be strong right to the end.
"Why would we have any divine right to finish fifth? We don't have.
"Manchester City, Portsmouth, Blackburn, Aston Villa have all had fantastic seasons and we have no right to finish there - we have to earn it.
"But the mood in the camp is the same as it has been all season. We have a good group of lads, they are in high spirits and have been all season and there is no reason not to be now.
"We have done okay and we have got a good chance to finish fifth or sixth and if we do that it is good going.
"We had a good run in the UEFA Cup and the Carling Cup and so there have been a lot of positives.
"I hope we can finish it off. A lot of things come down to the last day of the season and that makes it good for supporters and makes it an entertaining league - that is why people watch the Premier League."
There has been some suggestion Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will field a number of fringe players tomorrow with their season destined to finish trophyless.
However, Moyes does not believe that is Wenger's way - although he is prepared for every eventuality.
"I don't think he will make too many changes and if he does put some fringe players in they are very good and have probably played a lot of games whether it be in the cup, league or Champions League," said the Toffees boss.
"I don't believe anyone puts out weakened sides. I believe managers put teams out to win. Maybe players are tired and they need to rest a player but all managers want to win.
"I think going to Arsenal is a tough job whether they had nothing to play for or not.
"They are one of the best footballing sides on their day. They have some outstanding players and you need a little bit of luck and good fortune if you are to get a result at Arsenal.
"But it is important we take something from the game if we can do and that will be the aim."
Midfielder Mikel Arteta will miss the last two matches of the season with a stomach and groin injury while there are slight doubts over striker Andrew Johnson (calf) and midfielder Steven Pienaar (knee).
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