Premier League preview - How will Everton cope under Roberto Martinez?

The appointment of Roberto Martinez has gone down well and it is easy to see why. The Spaniard’s style of play may not be what Everton fans have been used to over the past 10 years, but is certainly something to look forward to.

Under David Moyes, Everton had a ‘do not lose’ mentality and that is something Martinez should look to keep, simply because of the amount of quality he has in defence. It must not be forgotten that the Toffees conceded three less goals in the league than Manchester United last season.

New signing Arouna Kone may be relied on for goals if Nikica Jelavic performs like he did last season, but Marouane Fellaini will be on hand to nab important goals when they are needed. For Roberto Martinez’s first season at Everton to be a success, he needs to keep hold of both Fellaini and Leighton Baines, but the lure of Manchester United may prove too great.

It may take Martinez time to instil his philosophy on the players, due to Moyes’ structured setup of the team, but creative players Kevin Mirallas and Gerard Deulofeu will help to make the transition easier and having some of Martinez’s former Wigan players will also help.

A solid defence and potent attack combined with Martinez’s style of play will assure Everton of a mid-table finish.

Prediction: 9^th

Thomas Baxter