Two defeats in their last 15 Barclays Premiership games gives the Toffees a genuine chance of qualifying for the UEFA Cup next term.

But with just five games left, and three at home, the importance of winning those matches at fortress Goodison Park - where they have lost in the league only three times all campaign - is crucial for Everton now.

But even that is laced with problems. Sunday's home battle with relegation-threatened Charlton is crucial to both sides, while league leaders Manchester United are the next visitors and their final home game is against fellow UEFA Cup hopefuls Portsmouth on May 5.

The two away games are at desperate West Ham and then title-chasing Chelsea on the last day of the season, so boss David Moyes and his team know the run-in will not be easy.

Neville said: "With five games to go it is going to be tight. I know it's a cliche, but we just need to keep taking one game at time and try to finish as high as we can."

Neville insists it is the team's spirit that is driving them forward, and he is revelling in a return to central midfield after a spell at right-back in place of the then injured Tony Hibbert.

The England utility man said: "The old saying 'never say die' is up in our dressing room wall at the moment, whether we go goals up or goals behind, we still want - and expect - to win games."

Everton have come from behind to claim points against Fulham and Bolton recently, and know they must defeat Alan Pardew's Charlton to maintain their advantage over the other clubs chasing two, maybe three, UEFA Cup spots.

A third will become available if Chelsea and Manchester United reach the FA Cup final.

Neville is loving the challenge. He said: "I am enjoying being back in the middle. It's great to be in there playing alongside Lee Carsley, who has been fantastic lately.

"Hopefully I can stay in there, but we're down to the bare bones and I'll be happy to play wherever the manager sees fit."

Everton have made their charge for Europe without key player Tim Cahill, out for the season, while Manuel Fernandes has been struggling to overcome a thigh injury.

They are also now without teenage striker James Vaughan, who severed an artery in his foot last weekend. Victor Anichebe, with a calf problem, is also a doubt.