Wednesday ToffeLinks

A good morning to everyone, or good afternoon for those of you across the pond. 3 days, yes that is right, we are 72 hours away from the start of the season. Can you feel the anticipation? The thought of Martin Tyler clinically describing each goal and mistake to the millions watching is too much to take. It has been a long and cold off season and I'm ready to get started.

But enough of me blabbering on, it is time to look at the news around Evertonia.

Martinez Believes Baines Staying - Liverpool Echo

Supposedly United has only made one bid for Baines, the paltry 12 million quid offer back in June. Managers are always going to be optimistic, but it does seem likely we are going to keep Baines for at least another year.

Sharp Tips Jelavic To Start - Liverpool Echo

After a pretty good preseason, Martinez really doesn't have any other option for up top. Jelavic has earned the right despite his performance last season. I think he's going to have a much better year, and that can only help Everton.

Martinez Defends Staff with No Everton Ties - Mirror

Apparently this is a thing. I heard a bit of this when Moyes went to United, but his appointment of Neville and Giggs to the coaching staff quelled it. Unfortunately Martinez is still getting stick about cutting the heart out of Everton. What an utter load of crap, but this is what happens when we let people spout off opinions.

Everton Chase Ghana Youngster - The Express

Everton and Tottenham are apparently set to improve their efforts to land Christian Atsu from Porto. The youngsters contract expires in a year, and if the 1 million pound transfer fee is true, Everton would do well to make a bid.

The Rise of Soller Derby - SB Nation

Roller Derby is apparently trying to make a comeback in the US. If you've never heard of this athletic event, it will do nothing to improve your thoughts on how crazy we are in America. That said this is a fantastic article on how the sport is trying to become a little more mainstream.