SINGAPORE - Everton manager Roberto Martinez has denied reports that he is looking to sign Jonny Evans from Manchester United and reiterated that James McCarthy is not for sale as he looks to build his team around the Republic of Ireland midfielder.
Everton's Roberto Martinez says he wants to build a team around midfielder James McCarthy
Reports from England on Thursday suggested Evans was on the verge of an pound sterling8 million ($12 million) move to Goodison Park but Martinez shot down the rumours during a Barclays Asia Trophy press conference in Singapore on Friday.
"No, it's not true," responded the Spaniard when asked about his club’s interest in the Northern Ireland international defender.
"I always say that I won’t be commenting publicly on the names that are being shared around but I can tell you clearly that there is nothing true on that subject," he added.
Martinez was also clear about the status of McCarthy, who has been linked with Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur in recent days.
"James McCarthy is a story that we keep hearing and I can only guess where that’s coming from," he said. "But I can only tell you from our point of view that he is a phenomenal asset that we spent a huge amount of money to bring to our football club and we are going to build a team around him."
"He’s got a long-term contract with Everton, he is enjoying his football and he is a great example for our group and there is no story to comment on."
Everton will meet Arsenal in the final of the Barclays Asia Trophy on Saturday and Martinez has been delighted with how things have gone for his team so far on their trip to the Lion City.
"It’s been an incredible experience to come here and to be able to see the passion, the enthusiasm and the know-how of the fans in Singapore about the Premier League," said the Everton boss, who saw his side beat Stoke City on penalties after a goalless draw at the National Stadium on Wednesday.
"From a preparation point of view, to be facing Premier League opposition in such demanding weather conditions has been really good and now we’re looking forward to the final.
While the Toffees are expected to face a strong Arsenal side in the final that should include Petr Cech in his first game as a Gunner, Martinez is less concerned with the opposition than with the condition of his own team.
"All that matters from our point of view is what we do," he said. "With all of the work that we’ve put in already, we do feel that we will have everyone in the squad ready for whatever comes our way."