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Roberto Martinez confirms D-Day approaching for Steven Naismith

Wednesday 30 December 2015 13:15, UK

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Everton manager Roberto Martinez says he's planning to discuss Steven Naismith's future in the next fortnight

Roberto Martinez has confirmed Steven Naismith's future will be decided over the next couple of weeks.

Norwich had a £7m bid for the Scotland international turned down in the summer, but Sky sources understand they are one of a number of clubs interested in signing Naismith in the New Year.

The 29-year-old scored a hat-trick in the 3-1 league victory over Chelsea in September, but has seen his first-team opportunities limited due to the consistent form of Romelu Lukaku. 

Martinez told the club's official website: "We all know that Norwich showed their interest in the previous window and it was something that I am sure was going to come out again in January.

"Steven has been working really hard and has been unfortunate to be out of the team because of the of form of other players in those forward positions.

"Clearly in January we will sit down and know exactly what the future holds for Steven and what is the best interests for both parties."

Lukaku has scored 11 goals in his last 10 games, including a run of scoring in eight straight games that broke a 60-year-old club record.

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Martinez is desperate to keep hold of the Belgium international and rebuff any interest from Premier League rivals next month.

Romelu Lukaku of Everton celebrates scoring the equalising goal during the Barclays Premier League match v Crystal Palace at Goodison Park
Image: Romelu Lukaku is a man with an Everton future, according to Martinez

He said: "We're under no illusions everyone wants a Romelu Lukaku in their squad. That's why we made such a big investment. We just want to be a winning team with Lukaku in the side."

James McCarthy has been ruled out of Sunday's Sky Live game with Tottenham while Tom Cleverley is also a doubt but Aaron Lennon and Kevin Mirallas will both back in the squad having been rested against Stoke. 

Martinez said: "James McCarthy clearly is not going to be available for the weekend. We are going to need to get a bit more information because his old injury flared up. We need to find out exactly what the situation is. 

"Tom Cleverley, we will have a bit more information today and we will find out what will be his position towards the weekend."

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