"Of course we want to build on the start we've had and we believe we can. We want to achieve things at the club, get into European places, that's the aim," McCarthy told Everton's official website.
"But we won't look too far ahead because it is only the start of the season.
"Come January we can look again at the table and take stock then. There will still be a long way to go in the league but we can weigh up from there where we want to be going."
GETTY
McCarthy (right) also played in Everton's 0-0 draw with Liverpool the last time the sides met
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We want to achieve things at the club, get into European places
James McCarthy
Tottenham currently sit fifth in the league but a 1-0 victory for Everton tonight would see them take the spot on goals scored.
Their fellow Europa League contenders this year, Liverpool, silenced doubters last weekend with a 3-2 triumph over Aston Villa, although manager Brendan Rodgers' job is still said to be under the scrutiny of Reds owners.
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Liverpool and Tottenham, who over the past five years have generally represented English football in the Europa League more than any other teams, face off at White Hart Lane next month.
But not before Everton, who played in Europe last season for the first time since 2010, host their city rivals at Goodison Park this coming Sunday.