Cahill 'excited' by Euro exploits
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Everton midfielder Tim Cahill believes David Moyes' Toffees have
the mindset to make an impact in the Europa League this season.
A good run of form, including a victory over Chelsea only
last week, has raised the spirits at Goodison Park.
Cahill cannot wait to get started on Tuesday when they
entertain Sporting Lisbon in the first leg of the round of 32.
Even though Everton managed to get through the group stage
they were hurt by two defeats, 5-0 and 2-0, by Sporting's
neighbours Benfica.
However, crucial wins against BATE Borisov and AEK Athens
secured their passage to the next stage.
Since then injured players have returned and the team's
results have improved as a consequence with only two defeats in 11
games in all competitions.
Cahill told UEFA's website: "I'm very blessed to play for
such a great club. I always say you have to run through brick
walls.
"That's regardless of knocks and injuries. We have that right
mental attitude. Hopefully we can just grow stronger.
"I'm just excited at the moment. When you draw Sporting, you
are in with the best teams in the world.
"I just wanted to learn as much as I could about their team,
their stadium and the attendance they get."
Sporting have endured a turbulent time with coach Carlos
Carvalhal appointed in November until the end of the season after
Paulo Bento resigned.
Even though the Portuguese side won their group ahead of
Hertha Berlin, their domestic form has been indifferent and they
lie a distant fourth to Benfica in the table.
Everton's previous run in the knockout rounds came to an end
in 2008 when they were knocked out on penalties after pegging back
a 2-0 deficit against Fiorentina.
Cahill added: "Because we haven't been in too many European
competitions, it's something the fans live for - taking the club to
the next level, not only on the pitch but off it.
"Having special away days are a reward for the fans, and they
respond by supporting their team and being the 12th man.
"I tell you, you can't hear anything, and when that ball goes
in the net it's an explosion of fireworks. It shakes through you."