Martinez hints Everton could play some younger players in the next couple of games

Everton manager Roberto Martinez has hinted that some of the younger players in the squad who haven’t had a run out much in the first team could be drafted in over the next few games to help with the current injury problems.

The likes of Luke Garbutt and Tyias Browning have been involved in the squad recently and could be sent on the pitch to do a job and has the full backing of the Spaniard as he fully believes in the Everton Yoot.

“If you look overall at the season, we have been giving opportunities throughout, and we have got players that are 19, 20 and 21 who have been given huge roles in the side,” continued Martinez.

“I don’t think it is about being young or not, it is about being prepared and I think that our young players are very much prepared to help the team.

“Sometimes you need that opportunity that comes through injury or suspension – and I don’t think that’s a case where we need to be worried that we are going to drop the level of performance. The work that is being done behind the season prepares the young players to be ready. And probably that unknown quantity has given us an extra edge in our performances.

“We pride ourselves in the work we do with the youngsters and wanting to be brave enough as a team to give them opportunities. But that doesn’t mean we are going to drop the level of performance at all.

“We have got young players that are very much capable of coming in and showing what they can do, and that excites me.

“This weekend, maybe we will have to bring someone from the Under-21s group and give them an opportunity, and that is what we are as a football club.

“We are not a club that are going to blame people missing or having injuries – we are just excited about the opportunities that are given to young players.”

Which of our youngsters would you like to be given a role over the next 12 months? Comment below of have your say on our forum for free at www.theevertonforum.co.uk/forum