THE football press is always notoriously fickle. They need controversy, talking points and issues to discuss. But they have surpassed themselves with the speed with which Everton have been ‘discovered’ and then discarded.

Two or three weeks ago David Moyes’ men were ‘discovered’ by the national media and ‘shock, horror,’ were begrudgingly praised for their football.

Now questions are being asked about their credibility as top four candidates and whether their squad is strong enough.

It’s nothing to worry about. It’s a general phenomenon, – like discussing the managerial position of the latest lame duck.

While the last six results, on paper, don’t look like those of a team with Champions League aspirations, a closer look will tell you that a 2-2 result in any Merseyside derby is nothing to be dismissed, especially after trailing 2-0. Then there was a thrilling performance at Fulham – described by Brede Hangeland as the best he’d seen at Craven Cottage, a come from behind victory over Sunderland and even in defeat at Reading, Everton were excellent, chance-taking apart, in the first half.

Things haven’t suddenly turned sour. We just need to start converting chances.

But while I was happy to confidently predict a victory at Reading, many would say the same for the visit of Norwich.

But this is a much more difficult game.

Chris Hughton (left) went to Nor- wich in difficult circumstances, but Norwich treated him well and are being rewarded.

Everton may have to face the Canaries with one or two key-men missing. But the Blues have a lot of versatility in their ranks, and most importantly have produced some of their finest performances and results when player availability was limited and their backs were to the wall.

I’ve no worries about who will play, or where, because that’s something Moyes and his players have always been able to overcome.