John Stones to Chelsea: Defender has comes to terms with Everton stay, says Roberto Martinez

Staying put: Martinez believes Stones has accepted he will remain at Everton
(Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Sam Long29 August 2015

Everton manager Roberto Martinez is adamant that John Stones has come to terms with the likelihood that he will still be an Everton player when the transfer window closes on Tuesday evening.

The 21-year-old has been the subject of strong interest from reigning Premier League champions Chelsea throughout the summer, but the Toffees are determined to retain their prize asset.

Several bids from Jose Mourinho's side have been turned down by Everton and Stones' transfer request was also rejected last week.

The defender produced a superb display during Everton's 0-0 draw against Tottenham on Saturday evening and Martinez firmly believes that the youngster has accepted that he will not be allowed to leave Goodison Park.

"Absolutely, yes. We have a very strong project which is giving young players opportunities and then we need to have a long term ambition. It's very hard to have players in the modern game like John Stones, Ross Barkley and Romelu Lukaku young players that are fulfilling huge roles and we want to become a winning team John is a big part of that.

"We are a special football club. Remember we have a real history. Now we haven't got a Champions League budget but we have many other aspects. The fans understand John has been put in an incredible position but what John has done is never let the team down and he played with an incredible focus," said Martinez.

Getty

Martinez believes that the way Stones has played during the speculation surrounding his future suggests that he can reach the very top of the game and the Spanish manager also revealed that he was proud of how the entire debacle was managed by Everton as a whole.

"I think it's there for everyone to see. Today, once more, he was always in control. He's an incredible defender the way he reads the game you would never say he is only 21 years old

"We all know how under the spotlight it's been but the signs of his performances were of someone who has the potential to become an England captain.

Then you look at our fans, the relationship they have and the delight at having John as an Evertonian. We have our own projects, our own ambitions, and John is a big part of that.

"It was great to see our football club showing a really strong face," he added.

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