EVERTON MANAGER ROBERTO Martinez has insisted that James McCarthy is not for sale following reports that Manchester City were preparing to make a bid for the Republic of Ireland international midfielder.

McCarthy was linked with the former Premier League champions after their failure to sign Aston Villa’s Fabian Delph.

However Martinez, who worked with the player at Wigan Athletic before they both joined Everton two years ago, is determined to hold on to the young talent in his squad.

“He is not for sale,” the Spaniard said.

“James McCarthy has been a top performer in the last few seasons and at the age of 24, he has already played over 300 games.

He has young legs, brings a lot of energy and he is a vital part of our squad.

Martinez was speaking after his side beat Premier League rivals Stoke City 5-4 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw at the National Stadium in Singapore to set up a meeting in Saturday’s Asia Trophy final against Arsenal.

- © AFP, 2015

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