Martinez: Everton won’t sell stars in January

Ian Watson

Roberto Martinez insists Everton’s best players will not be sold in January amid more speculation over interest in John Stones.

Chelsea have again been linked with a winter move for the Toffees centre-back, while Manchester United and Barcelona have also been credited with an interest.

But Matinez says Everton’s financial footing allows them to continue to snub big offers for their brightest talents and the manager will only be looking to add to his squad in January – if he does any business at all.

He said: “I am not worried at all. Our best players will not be leaving in January.

“We’re not in a position where we have to make financial decisions and our focus is on being as strong as we can together and keeping the continuity.

“From our point of view the window in January will be to see if there’s anything to help our squad.

“We don’t look on it as a window to be really involved whether that’s buying or selling, it’s more a matter of continuity.

“It’s about developing competition for places between the ones we already have.”

Martinez also told his press conference ahead of Saturday’s clash with Aston Villa that he has not had any discussion with free agent and former Villan Ron Vlaar.