Roberto Martinez has dismissed transfer speculation linking James McCarthy with a move to Tottenham or Man City.

Martinez: “He’s not for sale.

“My responsibility is to try to keep bringing competition into the squad. I think what we have got now is a very strong competition for places and we don’t want to lose that.

“We are not in a situation at this football club that we have to sell to balance the books. What we want is to be successful and create a winning team.

“James McCarthy has been a top performer in the last few seasons. At the age of 24, to be over 300 games shows the know-how he brings, together with young legs and good energy.

“He is a vital part of our squad.

“It’s important that we keep improving, keep getting stronger and that is the only focus we have – not losing assets.”