Leighton Baines will hope for an injury-free season

Leighton Baines feels Everton have a chance of challenging the top four in the Premier League this season, although he admits it will be tough.

The Blues open their league campaign against Blackburn and the defender, 23, believes his side will try their best.

"We had a bit of a run at it last year but we couldn't quite make it," the ex-Wigan man told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"We'll have another shot at it this year as will a few other clubs. But it will be difficult."

The Everton left-back has also had a look at what their rivals for a European place have been doing in the transfer market.

I think a lot of clubs have made a bit of a statement with some of the signings Everton defender Leighton Baines

He has been impressed with some of the additions the other teams have made and he says it will not just be the Blues fighting to break into the top four.

"I think a lot of clubs have made a bit of a statement with some of the signings. The likes of Tottenham and Portsmouth have made some good additions.

"Aston Villa have such a young squad and they'll probably improve year on year.

"So competition for the fifth place is going to be tougher than last year because of the progression the other clubs have made."