Everton will do well to hold on to Fellaini

Marouane Fellaini revealed last week that he wants to stay at Everton, but only if they can make it into the Champions League this season.

Fellaini signed a new contract only last season but his blistering form this campaign has apparently turned the heads of Manchester United and Arsenal who are enquiring about his availability.

United are reportedly taking a particular interest following the big Belgians superb performance earlier in the season in which he scored and single-handedly bullied their defence into submission.

And even if the Toffee’s do manage to make it into the top level European competition this term I think they will have a monumental task on their hands trying to hold onto Fellaini.

He has shown this season how capable he is of tormenting any defence with his quick feet and brute strength, not to mention his enormous afro which would put even some 70’s soul singers to shame.

I predict a big January for David Moyes as he looks to secure some quality reinforcements to ensure his side finish in the top four for the first time since 2005. Whilst their first team may be capable there are some question marks about depth of the

It is worth mentioning how refreshing it is to see a player grateful to the team who gave them a chance, and not wanting to leave the minute they get a better offer.

Fellaini arrived from Standard Liege as a relative unknown and has gone on to develop into a top class player under the tutelage of Moyes and the Goodison Park coaching staff. They stuck with him through a couple of serious injuries, something Fellaini is all too aware of.

Where some players are incredibly quick to forget who got them where they are today, Fellaini has reinforced that he wants to repay them and ideally would rather be playing in the Champions League for the boys from the blue half of Liverpool.

Everton fans would, quite obviously, want Fellaini to stick around even if they fall short of fourth place this season. But I’m sure many wouldn’t begrudge the big Belgian with the even bigger hair to strut his stuff on the highest stage of club football.

Robert Lock

Follow @rj_lock