Monday, 31st March, 2014
Everton manager Roberto Martinez has revealed that midfielder Ross Barkley sustained a calf injury during his side’s 3-1 win over Fulham yesterday.
The 20-year-old, who scored in the Toffees’ last two games, was replaced by Steven Naismith during half-time at Craven Cottage, with the score then level at 0-0.
mobile ad
Naismith scored Everton’s third goal and went on to pick up the man of the match award due to his superb 45-minute cameo.
And Martinez, who did not disclose the severity of Barkley’s injury, lauded the performances of the substitutes, Naismith, Kevin Mirallas and Aiden McGeady.
relatedNewsStory
“Ross had a knock on his calf halfway through the first half”, the Spaniard explained to his club’s official site.
“With these soft tissue injuries, someone like Ross doesn’t think it will affect him and he wanted to run it off.
“He had to come off but during the season you are as good as your squad – it’s never been a game for just 11 players.
“Today the players who came on made a real difference and I do feel the contribution of Steven Naismith, Kevin Mirallas and Aiden McGeady reflect what we are as a group of players.
“We need to be proud of what we have in the dressing room.”
The win helped Everton to consolidate fifth spot as they are now on 60 points from 31 outings.
Martinez’s side will next take on fourth-placed Arsenal at Goodison Park on Sunday.
Don't bet on football until you've visited Inside Bet! Interesting markets, top tips, betting facts – get all the info before you bet.
