Moyes proud of Everton's success

Everton last reached the European Cup over 30 years ago

Everton boss David Moyes was jubilant after his side secured a fourth-placed finish in Premiership to qualify for the Champions League.

Liverpool's 3-1 defeat at Arsenal on Sunday finally confirmed Everton would secure the fourth qualifying slot.

"It feels great. It's been a long, hard season but it's been terrific getting there and I'm delighted," he said.

"It's a tremendous achievement. It has all come good and we have been under a lot of pressure since September."

Moyes added on the official Everton website: "We proved months ago that we were not going to be relegated.

"I think probably after our performance against Aston Villa away [in February] I thought there was a real chance we could do it.

We have been fourth since September and it is what we deserve Everton midfielder Tim Cahill

"We were a good side and for me the pleasing thing is that we are extremely humble in our success."

Everton's Champions League ambitions had looked in some doubt until the Football Association confirmed during the week that the fourth-placed side would get the place, even if Liverpool win the Champions League.

Moyes added: "I didn't have any fears because I have trust in the people at the FA. I had a lot of belief in the system.

"If Liverpool had got ahead of Everton there would have been an uproar, it would have been a disgrace and could have caused problems in our city.

"The team who wins the Champions League should have the opportunity to contest it if they don't get through the following season."

A big thanks to Moyes and the boys. I have never felt prouder than I do today From C Have your say on 606

The Everton manager also said he wanted Liverpool to beat AC Milan in the Champions League final on 25 May.

He added: "As it is Liverpool are there. I hope they will go on to win the Champions League."

Everton midfielder and top-scorer Tim Cahill insisted the Toffees reaped what they deserved.

The Australian told the official Everton website: "We have been fourth since September and it is what we deserve. Some people forget that.

"It is satisfying because it means so much. Every time we have been asked to make a step-up we have, regardless of the criticism we have had from other managers, players and football clubs.

"We don't care what others say. It is all about us."