We were really hoping that Everton could fly the flag for England in Europe – a la Fulham five years ago – in what has been a poor showing by EPL clubs this season.
But the midweek elimination means that Everton are now scrapping for Premier League position and, improbably, Roberto Martinez finds himself under pressure as head coach.
We hope that this season has been a beneficial if steep learning curve for a man who is, after all, still learning his trade as a coach.
And he needs to strengthen again in the summer if Everton are to shake off a bad habit and actually start next season quickly. Latest reports suggest that the Everton manager is eyeing a young striker to play alongside Romelu Lukaku next season. The Mirror states:
Everton eye Monaco’s teenage striker Anthony Martial as partner for Romelu Lukaku
The 19 year old has played at every youth international level for France hitting 23 goals in 50 appearances for his country so far. He’s already played an impressive 42 times for Monaco too, scoring 7 goals in that period.
He has even played in The Champions League for Monaco this season, including in the defeat of Arsenal in the first knockout stage. So he may be difficult to prise from the French club but he certainly looks useful. As you would expect from a Frenchman, he’s technically good and also pretty quick and busy.
Let’s take a look at the lad in action. Everton fans: should Roberto be investing in youth or are more experienced heads required for next season?
