Kevin Kilbane : Everton Football club

Kilbane relishes Europe

Kevin Kilbane says representing the Republic of Ireland in the 2002 World Cup and current qualifying campaign will help him in Europe next season.

He is part of the Everton squad that have secured a Uefa Cup berth - and may yet qualify for the Champions League.

"It'll be tough - we've seen the places Newcastle and Middlesbrough had to go," the 28-year-old winger told BBC Sport.

"I would have thought it will be on a similar level to playing in the World Cup - it'll be very interesting."

Kilbane refused to be drawn into the row brewing between Everton and neighbours Liverpool over possible qualification for next season's Champions League.

"There's still a long way to go this season," he added.

I've loved it at Everton since I signed and I certainly want to stay

Kevin Kilbane

"I don't think we're really fighting our corner over it yet and Liverpool aren't because they've got some massive games coming up - particularly against Chelsea."

The former Preston and Sunderland player has one year left on his contract at Goodison Park and admitted that the prospect of playing in Europe would have a major bearing on his future.

"We have talked about it a bit but the club have stated that there will be no contract negotiations during this season," he said.

"I've loved it at Everton since I signed and I certainly want to stay.

"The incentive of European football is only going to enhance that, without a shadow of a doubt."

Everton may get through the prelim but iguess now that will be it!

Due to the greta support they may have a run in the UEFA cup but not major league

thye will go out in group stages assuming they get that far, but it is a money spinner and attracts bigger and better players to the club.