Martinez: Aspects of our play was magnificent
Roberto Martinez was full of beans after his patched up squad overcame a “tricky game” against Norwich City at Goodison Park. The hosts out played the canaries for much of the game and ended up with a two nil victory after fantastic goals from Gareth Barry and Kevin Mirallas.
Martinez said: “I’m very pleased. I think it was a very tricky game for us because obviously for any home game you feel like you have to concentrate on what you do on the ball and in your attacking play.
“I thought we were very good with that and some of the aspects of our play were magnificent.
“Of course with those types of games, you can leave yourself exposed and you can drop your level of concentration defensively but today we were at our best in that department. Together we got a clean sheet out of that and that was very satisfying.
“We made six changes from the FA Cup game for one reason or another and to see a team so close to together, showing a great understanding of what’s needed, was very, very pleasing.”
Martinez had to make a number of changes after injuries to Ross Barkley and the need to rest Antolin Alcaraz after the Paraguayan had just come back from injury, but the Spaniard was delighted to welcome back captain Phil Jagielka.
“That was very important,” he added. “Obviously we had the bad news of Ross Barkley having to miss the game, and Antolin Alcaraz not being able to play so many games having just come back, so to get Phil Jagielka back with Leighton Baines as well, that gives you an incredible strength.
“Then we had Tim Howard back in goal, and he showed an incredible sharpness in his performance.
“We look at every game as a challenge for this football club and each member of the squad is ready to come in and play the way the team expects. That is very satisfying.”
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