Everton manager Roberto Martinez has revealed that he is still looking to strengthen his side before the transfer window closes.
The Toffees have brought in two new additions to the senior squad so far this summer - Tom Cleverley and Gerard Deulofeu.
Martinez admits that more signings will be needed if Everton are to compete in the top half of the Premier League, but says that he is "very pleased" with the club's business to date.
"We know where we are and what we needed," the Spaniard told reporters. "We need to bring three players into the squad to allow us be in the shape we want to be. Overall I am very pleased but to be competitive we need the three new signings and will work hard to get them."
Asked about the status of his injured players heading into this weekend's curtain-raiser, Martinez added: "They are very close. Tony Hibbert has a problem with his knee and he will out for a longer period and Steven Pienaar is one of the injuries that makes us sad.
"He works so, so hard and it was a real shame to have that setback. Aiden McGeady has been carrying a hamstring problem and hopefully we can get that right. Gerard Deulofeu is not going to be fit for the weekend."
Everton get their season underway with a home match against Watford on Saturday afternoon.
Daniel Lewis
