Barkley staying put, says Martinez

Everton boss Roberto Martinez has ruled out the possibility of Manchester City-target Ross Barkley leaving in the January transfer window, insisting it is vital that he keeps his "best performers".

He said: “This January window for us it is vital we concentrate on recapturing our best form so you can imagine all of our best performers even if they get a lot of attention they are not going anywhere.”

Martinez has also targeted a long-term goalkeeping solution in January — putting the future of Joel Robles indoubt.

The 24-year-old Spaniard is currently deputising for Tim Howard, who is sidelined for six weeks with a calf injury. Both have three years remaining on their contracts but Martinez said: “Tim Howard is going to be out for six or seven weeks so we are a little bit exposed in that department as there is only Joel in the squad with any experience,” he said. “The other two young players (Jindrich Stanek and Russell Griffiths) at the club have terrific potential but it would be unfair to put them in a situation where they have to win games.”