Yakubu backing for Beckford

Beckford: Backed by Yakubu

Yakubu Aiyegbeni is backing team-mate Jermaine Beckford to prove a valuable signing for Everton.

Beckford joined the Toffees from Leeds United on a free transfer this summer, but has so far struggled to make a significant impact at Goodison Park, having yet to score his first league goal.

Yakubu, however, believes Beckford is continually improving as he adapts to the jump up in standard from League One football to life in the Premier League.

The Nigerian told Sky Sports News: "In training he looks sharp and has been doing really well.

Europe

"People need to understand he has come from League One and the Premier League is different.

"He is getting better and better."

Yakubu went on to express his feeling that Everton could qualify for Europe this season, despite their poor beginning to the campaign.

The Toffees appear to have overcome their slow start as they have gone four games unbeaten and climbed to 11th in the table.

He said: "We started badly but we are doing well now and hopefully we can get into Europe, although it won't be easy.

"There is a long way to go but I think we have a chance of qualifying for Europe."