The 2007-08 campaign was a season of ambition and near-miss for Everton, as The Toffees secured a brilliant 5th-place finish in the Premier League, qualifying for the UEFA Cup. Spearheading the attack was the club's record signing, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, whose 15 league goals (21 overall) proved decisive in a campaign built on consistency and a formidable defensive record. Under manager David Moyes, the side mounted a strong challenge for a Champions League spot and enjoyed deep cup runs, reaching the League Cup semi-finals and the UEFA Cup Round of 16, which ended in a dramatic penalty shootout loss to Fiorentina. The consistency of Joleon Lescott, who was voted Player of the Season, made it a memorable year that cemented Everton's status as a formidable Premier League force.