Martinez calls on familiar faces

Everton manager Roberto Martinez is calling on some familiar faces to help him make the transition to his new club.

Just 24 hours after signing Arouna Kone from former side Wigan ex-Latics defender Antolin Alcaraz also moved to Goodison Park.

The 30-year-old Paraguay international, a free transfer after his contract expired, agreed a two-year deal.

And Martinez secured a third recruit as 23-year-old Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Joel Robles, whom the Spaniard had on loan at the DW Stadium last season, signed a five-year contract.

“Atletico Madrid and Everton have reached an agreement for the transfer of Joel Robles to the English club,” said a statement on the Spanish club’s website.

“The goalkeeper, who ended last season playing on loan at Wigan, will compete in the Premier League following the agreement reached between the three parties.

“In our club we wish him luck in this new stage of his career.”

Robles displaced Ali Al Habsi as first-choice last season and played in the Latics’ FA Cup final victory over Manchester City.

Alcaraz, who also played in the cup final, had a difficult time with injuries and missed six months with a groin problem.

Martinez always insisted the player’s absence contributed significantly to Wigan’s relegation but the defender is now looking at a new challenge.

Until the manager sends out his first side there has been no indication whether he will introduce his three-at-the-back system he employed at Wigan.

If he does not then Alcaraz is likely to be battling established first-choice central defensive pair Phil Jagielka, Toffees captain, and Sylvain Distin for a place.

“There are always good players at every club. When you go to a new club you must work hard in training to get the opportunity,” he said.

“Competition is always good – the more quality within the team the more you can improve yourself.

“I will try to do my best – that’s the mentality I have had throughout my career.

“When a footballer changes club – whether it is at the end of his contract or a transfer – it is always like that but the idea is to give my best and try to help the team this season.

“I really feel enthusiastic for the new challenge in my career. I’m looking forward to what is happening in the future.”

Alcaraz admits the chance to remain in the Premier League and work with Martinez again were the significant factors in joining Everton.

“We talked to a lot of clubs but I was always interested in staying in the Premier League,” said Alcaraz.

“I know him (Martinez) really well and he knows me very well also.

“We had a very good relationship in the three years at Wigan and I want to continue that. Nothing is going to change, he is very professional.

“I have learned many things with him. He gave me a lot of support when I came here, when I was new in this competition.

“It is totally different and he gave me many lessons on how to adapt to this type of football.

“Thanks to him I adapted quickly to English football. There are many things I can say thank you to Roberto for, for my years here in England.”