Football FanCast columnist Joe Jennings reflects on a positive season for Everton football club and feels that thanks to David Moyes, they have finally banished the dark days of the 90s.

This season we have undoubtedly, considering the size of our squad and resources climbed the mountain but have we yet scaled the peak?

Fifth, when we dispose of Newcastle on Sunday, will ensure an absolutely tremendous season. It will mean Everton will have finished 4th, 5th and 6th in the past four seasons, unbelievable progress considering the downturn of fortunes which was the 1990's.

For a squad assembled on a shoestring compared to what not only the 'big 4' but the likes of Spurs and Newcastle spend- that's a tremendous indicator of David Moyes getting it right at a very fundamental level. A couple more quality signings to reinforce the squad in midfield and at the back and I genuinely believe we will become Champions League contenders, and frequently at that.

Everton Football Club has been in the doldrums for way too long, yet I have incredible memories of not only great players, but great professionals. The size and potential of Everton should not be underestimated; we are a bastion of English football who is seeking desperately to regain our place at the forefront.

The expectation levels are higher than ever, and rightly so. The fans not only seek the best, but demand the best. Mid-table mediocrity is no longer good enough, thankfully, we have moved on from fighting for our lives.

Over the past 5 years, the distinct transformation has proved vivid. We proved, back in 2005, that the "underdog" can reach the ‘promised land'; after all, every dog has its day.

Nonetheless, improvements must be made. It would be absolutely unforgivable, criminal as it happens if Everton missed the opportunity to genuinely strengthen this summer, and in turn, reap the resulting benefits next season. We don't have the spending power of the "Big 4", therefore we simply must buy the stars of tomorrow. Young, combative, industrious players should be priority.

The drift wood must be shipped out and replaced with a new fleet. As mentioned in the past, we are carrying some players and this must be halted in the summer. I admire Lee Carsley, he has been an incredible servant but his time has unfortunately come. Football is a ruthless business, especially if you want to become the best.

One would hope our UEFA Cup exploits have caught the eye of potential captures. It was a rollercoaster ride for the club and despite the disappointment of how it ended, it will prove integral, particularly with regards to the experience and knowledge gained.

Admittedly, Everton have gone through a lean spell for far too long but surely now, it is clear to all we are emerging, and powerfully at that. It has been a long, hard road and one at times which would never seem to reach a satisfactory conclusion.

They put you through hell, bring tears to your eye but would it be Everton without the hitches along the ride? Chin up Blues, the tide is changing, the balance is tilting, for Evertonians have not only regained their pride, but have regained belief in the side we idolise. For that we can only be thankful to a certain Glaswegian, none other than Mr David Moyes.