Everton boss prefers performances to points

Ian Watson
Roberto Martinez: Believes Everton will be stronger with new investor

Roberto Martinez: Believes Everton will be stronger with new investor

Everton manager Roberto Martinez wants his side to find consistency but says their performances have merited more points so far this season.

The Toffees have got off to a mixed start in the Premier League, with three draws, two wins and a defeat leaving them in sixth place. Their two victories – away at Southampton and at home to Chelsea – were the result of very impressive performances and Martinez wants his side to produce similar displays on a more regular basis.

The boss said: “The best way to measure the quality of the squad is consistency; Southampton away and Chelsea at home has given a reflection of what we can achieve,” he said.

“Now it’s about continuity. Our levels of performances have been better than our points return.

“At this stage I’d rather have the performances than the points. But in general terms we’re aware of the level of competition we face and the strong, exciting challenges we have ahead.”

Martinez remains hopeful that John Stones will be available at The Hawthorns on Monday night after he was withdrawn during the Capital One Cup win at Reading in midweek, while Seamus Coleman could also feature.

“We’ve been pleased with John’s reaction to treatment,” Martinez said.

“The next 48 hours will be very important. It’s too early to make a final decision on him; it’ll be touch and go for the West Brom game.

“Seamus has been working really well, training on the grass, and he could be involved in the game on Monday too or if not then the next one.

“The squad will be the same (as Reading) with the possibility of having John and Seamus available.”