Mikel Arteta has spoken of his admiration for his Everton team-mates as the club prepares for another crack at the top four next season.The Merseysiders have arguably been the most consistent of the 'other' clubs outside of the established 'top four' in the past couple of seasons and Arteta can see no reason why that trend will not continue in the next few seasons.

Arteta is largely credited as being Everton's most important player but the classy Spaniard is quick to pay tribute to those around him.

Citing Yakubu Aiyegbeni's goals, along with the tight defensive base provided by the likes of Joleon Lescott and Phil Jagielka, Arteta believes David Moyes has set solid foundations at Goodison Park.

"This season is going to be harder than ever because other teams are going to get good players and they want to catch us up," he told the club's official website.

"We're a strong squad though and players like Yakubu make a difference. You know that if he gets a chance he's going to put it in the back of the net. He doesn't need a lot to score goals, it's easy for him. When you've got someone like that in your team it nearly assures you to be in the top six.

"[Phil] Jagielka's been unbelievable too. He's been something like Joleon [Lescott]. When they first came everybody was like 'Hmmm, I'm not too sure about him,' but they've both been terrific."

Another player who has been key to Everton's success is free-scoring midfielder Tim Cahill, who has been sidelined of late with a foot injury.

The Australian has undergone surgery and is refusing to set a timescale on when his recuperation will be complete.

"I am not going to put any dates or times on my return," Cahill conceded.

"I am just looking to get fit. I'm taking no chances, if it takes another couple of weeks longer, then that is what it is going to take."

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