Everton manager Roberto Martinez has urged the club's fans to be patient with the team as they search for consistency.
The Toffees have been one of the most exciting sides to watch in the Premier League this season, with their games providing more goals than any other club in the division.
They are also among the top scorers in the league, yet they sit 11th in the table having struggled to string a good run of results together, particularly at home where they have won just three league games all season.
"I think the fans are sharing the same frustration that we share. We know that we showed great signs this season but we need to be patient. The performances have been very consistent and probably that's where the frustration comes," Martinez told reporters.
"But we all need to learn as a football club that we've got a special group of players and we have to help them. I don't think we've lost the fans. I think the fans see a fully committed team that give everything with incredible character and personality. Any time we get a blow, we always react, we always fight until the end. Some of the attacking football this season has been outstanding.
"Away from home we've conceded nine goals, but we've conceded 20 at Goodison, and clearly that's costing us a lot of points. We want to work hard to correct that. We need the understanding of our fans to make sure we make a top team into a winning team."
Everton host Manchester City in the first leg of their League Cup semi-final on Wednesday evening.
Barney Corkhill
