Everton boss Roberto Martinez wants to keep loan players

Everton manager Roberto Martinez has said that he is keen to keep hold of the club's on-loan players.

Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku, Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry and Barcelona winger Gerard Deulofeu have all impressed during their loan stints at Goodison Park this season.

Martinez has confirmed that he is prepared to use the loan market again next season if the trio do not remain with the Merseyside outfit.

"All I want for the boys that we have on loan is that they have an incredible experience as players," Martinez told Sky Sports News.

"Some of the young ones just to develop, Gareth just to have a real enjoyment and create memories for the future. The loan market is very important for us. If we can keep those players great, if not then we will have to use the loan market again.

"Lukaku is an irreplaceable footballer and that is a reality. Barcelona are one of the best teams in the world but when they have not got Messi, the team suffers."

Everton are currently sixth in the Premier League.

Written by
Steven Toplis