Everton legend Howard Kendall has backed Roberto Martinez to lead the Club into a prosperous new era.
Kendall, who masterminded the Blues trophy-laden mid-eighties period, is convinced that Martinez will flourish at Goodison after cutting his managerial teeth with Swansea City and Wigan Athletic.
The Spaniard first moved into management in 2007 and, despite being aged just 39, has already presided over 300 matches at the Liberty and DW Stadiums.
“I think he will do an excellent job,” Kendall told evertontv.
“The job he did at Wigan, keeping them in the league for so long, and the attractive way he plays football, I’m sure the fans will like that. He’s [also coming here] on the back of an FA Cup win.
“I’ve met him a number of times and he is a true gentleman. I’m sure he will do well.
“I have been impressed [when I’ve been in his company] and I think Bill Kenwright was impressed as well. He must have been.
“I think for Roberto, it’s the right time for him. He’s been linked with a number of clubs previously but it’s right time to come into the big time.”
Kendall revealed that his relationship with Martinez has been enhanced because of their connection with Spanish football.
The 67-year-old managed Athletic Bilbao for two years after ending his first stint at the helm of Everton in 1987.
“Roberto normally comes out with a little bit of Spanish to me because he played at Real Zaragoza which is in the Basque area and very near to Bilbao.
“He introduces himself in Spanish but then we normally get talking in English again.
“I haven’t had the chance to speak him since he got the job but I have left a message wishing him well.
“I am looking forward to seeing him at the start of the season.”