Carlo Ancelotti wants his squad to embrace the pressure of needing to deliver and show they remain in the hunt for European football.
Only five weeks ago, Everton looked serious contenders to finish in the top four after they rattled off consecutive wins against Liverpool, Southampton and West Bromwich, but since that last victory they have lost all momentum.
Defeats by Chelsea and Burnley, coupled with a careless draw with Crystal Palace seven days ago, have left Ancelotti's side with little room for manoeuvre. They may have two games in hand on their rivals, but they will count for little if they continue to squander points.