Everton boss Roberto Martinez says Kiev win 'is an inspiration'
Sunday 15 March 2015 17:51, UK
Roberto Martinez has called on his Everton side to repeat the showing which saw them hit back to beat Dynamo Kiev.
Everton have just 28 points from as many league games this season, but have impressed in the Europa League including coming from an early goal down to beat the Ukranians 2-1 at Goodison Park.
Ahead of their game with Newcastle on Sunday, Martinez has spoken of his side having "10 finals" ahead of them in their bid to beat the drop.
"What we need to produce is a level of performance that will give us points,” he said. "If you look at Thursday's game, the first 20 to 30 minutes - if we perform in that manner in the league, we are not going to get the points we want.
"But if we play in the way we did in the next 60 minutes, we are going to get many strong performances and many points.
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I think it can be a big turning point in our season, in terms of understanding how we can be the team we know we are and not attracting negative momentum.
"So that is the focus - how quickly in the league we can get performances that replicate that freedom, enjoyment, high tempo and bravery we showed in the last hour of the game."
Everton are just six points above the relegation zone having won only one of their last 12 league games, but Martinez believes the way they ended the Kiev game will serve them well in building momentum.
"In other games in Europe there has been a real freedom from us from the start, and the whole 90 minutes has been a completely different mindset and way of playing to what we have had in the league.
"But on Thursday, there was very much a contrast. At first we were in that fearful position, carrying a lot of responsibility on our shoulders, trying to meet expectations.
"Then there was a change during the game, which has not happened before in Europe. I think what happened has allowed us to realise that that has been the problem in the Premier League this season.
"So I think it can be a big turning point in our season, in terms of understanding how we can be the team we know we are and not attracting negative momentum."
Full-back Leighton Baines faces a late fitness test on his groin injury ahead of Sunday's match, while defender John Stones is expected to be available again after missing Thursday's encounter due to a virus.
Winger Aaron Lennon is available after being cup-tied but midfielder Gareth Barry misses out as he starts a two-match suspension.
