Saturday 13 September 2014 17:21, UK
Roberto Martinez says no member of his Everton squad is guaranteed a place, including club captain Phil Jagielka.
Jagielka is yet to produce his best this season, with the struggles endured with England at the World Cup finals over the summer dragging on into the 2014/15 campaign.
He has formed part of an Everton defensive unit that has conceded 10 times in its opening three Premier League fixtures – having boasted one of the best records in the division last time around.
Martinez is convinced that his vastly-experienced centre-half will rediscover his consistency, but has warned that no-one can be assured of a starting berth in a fiercely competitive squad.
I think everyone knows being captain is a massive role. You need to look after the rest of the players but it doesn’t guarantee you anything in that respect.
Ahead of Saturday’s trip to West Bromwich Albion, Martinez said when asked if the armband would keep Jagielka out of the firing line: “No. I think everyone knows being captain is a massive role.
“You need to look after the rest of the players but it doesn’t guarantee you anything in that respect.
“Phil will be a very important player for us but no-one has playing guaranteed, that’s for sure.
“With Phil, like any player who comes from the World Cup, you are, of course, going to need a period to get back to your best.”
One of those pushing for a regular role at Goodison Park is John Stones – fresh from two senior starts for England.
Martinez says the 20-year-old has a big part to play in his plans, but he will be wary of asking too much of a player still finding his feet at the very highest level.
He added: “Seeing him playing for England gave me a real insight. John is impressive with how he copes with big occasions.
“But it’s not about playing every game, it’s about what the players need.
“John will have a massive role this season with us but there is a responsibility to make sure the time he plays is quality time.”
