MAN OF WAR

Goodison spark vital in drop battle says Iwobi

- DAVID MADDOCK

ALEX IWOBI is under no illusions: Everton will feel like they are going into war this Sunday.

Not that he is comparing football to combat in any way. On the pitch, he believes his team will be calm and prepared for the victory which guarantees the prize of Premier League safety that is within their grasp this weekend.

It is just the tense, heavilycharged atmosphere generated by the emotional Goodison Park fans that offers such an impression.

And an inspiring prelude as the team bus edges its way through the packed streets that huddle next to the old stadium.

"We thrive on it. It is electric when we are on the bus, coming into the game and you can see them chanting, banging the bus. You definitely feel it, almost as if you are going into war," he said.