Everton at Newcastle United: Pre-match Quotes

With continued talk of an imminent takeover, Everton have refused to comment but Roberto Martinez thinks the Blues are in safe hands.

The gaffer said,

"We all know what a fantastic chairman we have. Going forward we’ve got a really exciting team and I think the youth and the talent that we have in our dressing room reflects that spirit in the boardroom.

"Our chairman will always look for the best for Everton and clearly when it’s something we have to share with our fans, the fans will be the first ones to know.

"But whatever’s going to happen in our future is going to be good because we’re in a great position and the football club is in the best possible hands."

Focusing on matters on the pitch, Roberto wants his squad to start delivering consistent results – starting with today to an in-form Newcastle United.

"The mood is that we are focussed on becoming better. We are close to getting consistent results."

"To get 7 points from 9 against the opposition they have faced is an indication of where Newcastle are."

In terms of team news Steven Naismith has shaken off a slight injury but the game has come too early for Steven Pienaar, Phil Jagielka and James McCarthy in their stages of recovery.

"There are no new injuries. Pienaar, Jagielka, McCarthy and Oviedo will play some part in the seven games in the next three weeks."

"Steven [Naismith] is going to train today and should be okay for Newcastle. He had an ankle niggle."

Romelu Lukaku can score in a ninth consecutive game today equalling a club record that stretches back to 1927 with the great Dixie Dean.

"You’re talking about footballers that are Everton giants," said Martinez. "To have Romelu’s name around those is an incredible achievement."