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Arouna Kone's influence on the sparkling form of Romelu Lukaku should not be underestimated, insists Roberto Martinez.

The Everton forward has struggled to make an impact during recent appearances, and the manager's perseverance in selecting him has been questioned in some quarters.

But Martinez maintains that the Ivorian's efforts help bring the best of the club's record signing, who has bagged 18 goals so far this term.

He said: "He gives us a different dimension. Romelu Lukaku has benefited immensely from his presence. He will always attract defenders and open up spaces.

"He was involved in the second goal (against Stoke) and in every single game his influence is there even if it isn't as clear as it could be from another player.

"He's a different type of footballer from the others who can play in that position but a great option to have.

"If you have a back four playing against one striker like Lukaku or two like Lukaku and Kone they have to defend a different way."

Martinez is under illusions that his 11th-placed side's defending must improve.

But he says their free-scoring form at the other end is still bodes well for a significant month.

"Our attacking play has been outstanding," he said. "When you lose you have to question everything but we've got a goal difference, and despite the huge amount of goals we've conceded that we shouldn't, we still have it at plus seven and that shows you how good we've been going forward."