Martinez: I wouldn’t be mad if I played Lukaku at Stevenage
Everton manager has responded to Stevenage gaffer Graham Westleys claims that he would be mad if he selected big Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku in today’s FA Cup match at the Lamex Stadium.
Westley claimed that Martinez would be seen “in a psychiatric hospital” before the striker lines up against Stevenage as it will be his third game in 8 days (after Tuesdays match with Liverpool in the Merseyside derby), but Roberto seemed bemused by it all.
“That seems a bit of an odd comment,” said Martinez.
“Whatever the opposing manager says, there must be a reason for it. But that won’t change what we’re going to try to do on Saturday, which is to be as good as we can.
“It is a balancing act, but I know exactly what Romelu needs for Saturday and that doesn’t change because of who we are playing.
“He can play three games in eight days. I don’t think a rest is what he needs, he is only 20. That’s a big advantage and the other big advantage is he is ready to take that responsibility.
“There will be moments when three games in a week will be impossible and I need to measure that, but I think he needs to play week in week out and having the responsibility to lead the line.”
Martinez also strangely declared that Stevenage would be favourites for the tie, despite being rock bottom of league one.
“Whoever I select on Saturday, I expect a good level of performance and the same for Tuesday,” said the Spaniard.
“We need to find a way to be competitive, to adapt to the conditions and to get through.
“But Stevenage will be favourites in my eyes, unless we are perfect in what we try to do.”
What do you think the blues line-up will be? Come and post your shouts and match predictions in our match thread here: https://www.theevertonforum.co.uk/everton-forum/10693-stevenage-vs-everton-sat-25th-jan-17-30-a.html