But Kendall, who twice guided Everton to the First Division title, told BBC Radio Merseyside: "You can't knock their attitudes or performances.
"I think they've been unfortunate not to be higher in the table with the way they've performed, it's just the results that have been disappointing."
He added: "I think they are good enough to be well up there. If you look at the likes of Bolton and Stoke, I think man for man and the way they've performed, Everton are better.
"But it's all about points and I think they are quite capable of putting a run together."
Kendall, who had three spells in charge at Goodison Park, also singled out Irish full-back Seamus Coleman for particular praise.
"I think he's got a little way to go but at the same time he's an exciting prospect," said Kendall.
"There are not many with the pace and the ability to go past players at this present time."
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport