Wednesday 16 December 2015 09:04, UK
Roberto Martinez expects no repeat of the John Stones transfer saga in January, with Everton steadfast in their desire to keep him at least until the summer.
Martinez has consistently said Stones is unavailable and, even though he cannot stop renewed interest from Chelsea, the January window is not the time to be considering such an important transfer.
Chelsea made a number of offers for the 21-year-old last summer, but each was rejected by Everton chairman Bill Kenwright even after a transfer request was handed in.
Martinez said: "It's very different (in January). When you are right in the middle of the season I think players understand you can't sell someone if you can't replace him.
"The uncertainty comes in the summer where everyone speaks about possibilities. That's where there is constant talk and debate.
"January is a window to solve problems with players who are not featuring as often as they feel they should, or to bring in players from a lower league to give them an opportunity.
"We created a squad to see how far we could go over 10 months. January doesn't even come into consideration. We'll never lose anyone in January unless it is somebody who hasn't been playing and we need to find a solution.
"If he is a top performer, it's not even a consideration."
