Roberto Martinez praises Tom Cleverley after Everton win
Saturday 26 December 2015 21:02, UK
Everton manager Roberto Martinez has said his players have learned their lessons following a winless streak that ended with Tom Cleverley snatching a late winner at Newcastle United.
Former Manchester United midfielder Cleverley popped up in the 94th minute to score a looping header that secured a 1-0 win for Everton at St James' Park.
The victory ended a poor run of results that had seen the Toffees fail to record a victory since 21 November when they thrashed Aston Villa 4-0 at Goodison Park.
Speaking after the victory, Martinez said his team deserved to leave with maximum points after learning from past results.
"We deserved that final kick in terms of getting the three points," the Spaniard said.
"This result is an accumulation of lessons we have learned and that's very pleasing as a manager looking at your players wanting to take responsibility and get better."
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Everton started brightly with Romelu Lukaku looking likely to break the deadlock and equal Dixie Dean's club record of scoring in nine consecutive matches.
But Newcastle grew into the contest only to be beaten by an injury time winner from Cleverley. Martinez said he was pleased with the way his side performed.
"I felt very satisfied with the way we were performing throughout the game. In football, you have to take your chances but the way we controlled the game was very pleasing," Martinez added.
"We started extremely well and dominated the first 20 minutes. Elliot in goal was outstanding. I've reviewed some of the game and we had five clear-cut opportunities - to have that away from home was impressive but, more than ever, it was about getting through the period home teams always get."
The Everton boss singled out Cleverley for his "outstanding" all-round play.
"Tom has great experience in controlling the moment," he added. "He's been given unfair treatment over the last three years but I know him well and the way he has been performing for our football club - that's him back to his best.
"He's an English talent that goes further than just being someone who can do everything. He's outstanding at what he does."
