Roberto Martinez: 'Everton won't take Europa League lightly'

Roberto Martinez has insisted that Everton will not be taking their last-16 Europa League tie lightly, despite their struggles in the Premier League.

The Toffees are just six points clear of the relegation zone ahead of the first leg of their tie against Dynamo Kiev this week.

The manager told BT Sport: "We know the severity of the situation in the league. We have 10 games to go, and we will take that as 30 points to fight for and 10 finals. But the only focus for now is Dynamo.

"We don't want to take things lightly. The last time we were involved at this stage was 2008. You should not underestimate how much work has been put in over the last 16 months to get into this position. So we must focus on this tie, and the home leg, which is vital. European football is something we want at Everton.

"I think we have enough quality and experience to understand that tomorrow we need to make it a big European night at Goodison, and then the responsibility in the dressing room will be to get ready after that for the next game. One competition should not get in the way of the other."

Everton will play Newcastle United in the league at Goodison Park on Sunday.