Everton duo John Stones, Seamus Coleman remain doubts for Merseyside derby

Everton manager Roberto Martinez has claimed that he will make a late call on the inclusion of John Stones and Seamus Coleman for this Sunday's Merseyside derby against Liverpool.

Stones, who has become Phil Jagielka's regular partner at centre-back, has not featured for the Toffees since their Capital One Cup match against Reading on September 22, while Coleman has been struggling with a hamstring problem.

When asked about the duo's fitness ahead of Sunday's showdown at Goodison Park, Martinez told reporters: "It's too early to tell. They're progressing well and in the next two sessions we'll get a clear idea. We'll leave a decision until the day of the game."

Everton are currently fifth in the Premier League table, while their local rivals reside one point behind in ninth place.