Everton FC boss Martinez insists Baines hasn’t asked for Manchester United … – Liverpool Echo

29 Aug 2013 07:24

Everton’s manager Roberto Martinez in action against Stevenage

Roberto Martinez has dismissed reports that Leighton Baines has asked Everton to allow him to join Manchester United before the transfer deadline.

The Blues’ 2-1 extra time victory over Stevenage in the Capital One Cup last night was overshadowed by speculation before (Free £25 bet offer) Kick-off that the England defender wants the Goodison board to negotiate a deal with their Old Trafford counter-parts.

But Martinez, who saw another United target Marouane Fellaini score the late goal which sealed the Blues eventual progress into the next round, denied that Baines has approached him and asked the club to make his exit happen.

However the Toffees boss declined to comment on further reports late last night that the Red Devils have made a fresh £38m combined approach to sign Everton’s prized duo.

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Everton FC v Stevenage in the Capital One Cup at Goodison Park. Photo by James Maloney

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He said: “It’s no comment. I don’t want to be the one commenting on what is going on between clubs. There’s nothing to tell the fans.

“I don’t know anything about that bid. I’m not going to entertain any speculation or rumours. When there’s anything to tell the fans, we will do. We are looking to get one or two bodies in and we will focus on the games and carry on working internally.

“We aren’t going to feed any rumours or stories going round. That time has gone. That was before the season started. Now the games are the most important thing.”

One national newspaper had claimed yesterday that Baines has told Martinez and chairman Bill Kenwright he wants them to open talks with United chief executive Ed Woodward over a deal which would let him join the reigning Champions.

But Martinez responded: “No. You are going to get so many stories.

“I’ve said it before, the transfer window being open while there are games going on is not healthy. The two players that are being mentioned have been true professionals.

“I will be glad when the transfer window is closed, I tell you!”

The Kirkby-born left-back has remained tight-lipped throughout United’s pursuit, and has long been considered unlikely to agitate for a move or hand in a formal transfer request in any case.

Martinez, who also confirmed that Victor Anichebe’s absence last night was due to a minor ankle injury sustained on Monday, said Stevenage deserved credit for their spirited display.

“We managed the game really well,” said the Catalan. “Their goal was a bit of a misunderstanding but from that point on I thought we were really good although in the final third at times naïve, and we couldn’t show enough sharpness. We created enough chances and it’s important you take them in theses games.

“Marouane Fellaini gave us the final push which we needed, and we deserved to get through, but the headlines should be about how Stevenage played.”