Everton 'tick every box' - Roberto Martinez

24 December 2012 14:49

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez believes Everton "tick every box" but is confident his team can provide more than a match for them in their Boxing Day clash at Goodison Park.

The Toffees are having an impressive 2012-13, losing just twice in their 18 Barclays Premier League games so far and currently lie fifth in the table, behind fourth-placed Arsenal on goal difference alone.

Asked if he thought the Toffees would be able to sustain their top-four push, Martinez said: "Yes, because of the experience they have got and because of the way they have started the season."

He went on: "We all know that Everton traditionally start seasons a little bit slowly and then finish at a very good level.

"But we can speak from our own experience. It will be our second game against Everton and in the first one, it was the best Everton side we have faced.

"This Everton side tick every box. They have been able to get consistently good results in this league and that allows you to be fighting for the top four positions.

"At Goodison Park they are unbeaten and it is one of the hardest places to visit in the Premier League.

"We are well aware of all that, but we feel we can match Everton on our day."

Source: PA