Three splendid goals from the Blues

No mate he's a left back being played at LEFT BACK !

By the way, Cleverley has been excellent in the last game and a half. Let's keep it tight second half, close the game out, please...

Another clean sheet for Robles.

Match of the day here I come! I haven't said that often of last 2 years!

I'm off to take the my boss Mrs dancin. Enjoy the night guys

Now it looks like our bad lucks turning and we might go on a little run. I think we've got the makings of a really good side and we play good football. I don't subscribe to the notion the footballs been bad this season.

I just think we're mentally weak but I saw some good things today. We now look like we can score from corners, thanks in part to Funes Mori, who has a goal threat like Lescott and Mountfield. And it looks like we've sorted the GK situation, for this season at least. Joel comes in and we keep 2 clean sheets in as many games. There's a reason for that. The pairing of Jags and Funes Mori also looks stronger so I won't give all the credit to Joel.

Lets hope this is a mini-revival we're on. I'm optimistic we are because I don't think we've got the errors at the back with Howard and Stones having a rest.

Robles in goal, Stones dropped, Lennon out wide. Should have been done weeks ago.

We only want players who are playing for Everton and not for themselves. If Leicester City can do it then so can we.

That's three 3-0 wins on the trot. Long may it continue.

There's no excuses for not playing like that every game from now till the end of the season. That didn't look like the sluggish, lazy, unfit Everton I've seen a lot of this season. They looked well up for it and fit.

I love days like today. Even the red shite managed to fuck it up at the death to top it off.

Ninety per cent hard work, ten per cent talent.

Our defence looks a lot more solid without Howard and Stones. 3 games without the above two, 3 clean sheets. Coincidence?

I agree with Plato Stavrinos about McCarthy too - that man is absolutely vital to our team even though he's had a mixed 12 months or so including, of course, being out injured.

Off topic I know but, I see Byram is on the bench for the Hammers at Southampton. Broken Promises eh.

The lads work rate and energy is top class and he's a decent player aswel made up for him after his bad injury!

If he carries on in that vein then he has a chance of redeeming himself and this team. It is also fair for the manager's critics (of whom I am one) to say that the spirit among the players looks fantastic and if you've got that then you're already on the front foot.

I remain unconvinced by our manager and think we have badly wasted this season and last, but this result today is encouraging. I want to see a serious run, though, till the end of this season, and a serious run in the FA Cup, before I can invest any renewed trust in Martinez.

Great result for Leicester at Citeh.

Make no no mistakes, this was forced on Bobby with the injuries to Stones and Howard.

Lennon, Barkley, Oviado, Mccarthy making a huge difference, add to that Jags, Mori and Robles, hard to single anyone out.

I reall do believe if Bobby sticks to his selections of late, we will do well, if he brings back Stones and Tim as soon as they are fit, then He will lose most of the fans again, only this time he could be facing the wrath of the Everton crowd as a majority.

Dont change it Bobby, this is what the fans have been asking for, for months, onwards and upwards.

I've been to more away matches than most on here though I don't go as much now, but I've never thought that made my support or opinions superior.

We will finish top 7 this year and top 3 next. We need a top goalkeeper, Yarmolenko or Arnautavic, and a top quality centre-half. All 3 can be funded by the sale of Stones. The lad is class but we would be a better all round team if we cashed in.

McCarthy comes in for a lot of stick on here, but sometimes it not obvious what certain players give to a team.

I hope all those FM's who demanded we sign Charlie Austin have watched him stink up St Mary's this evening.

In Martinez we trust.

Yeah.

Let's march

Get ripped for a plane.

Tell the others they are naïve

Coz we are ..just silly optimists with the same joy when we win as when we were 12.

You could say it was "All too beautiful"

FWIW,

Lennon is the new Pienaar. It's just that most people don't know it yet.

Only small but like like Alan Ball a veritable giant.

I ask you to watch Match of the Day carefully tonight and count how many times you see McCarthy on the left side of the pitch, or Barry on the right, because it will be few for either. Now, think back a few weeks and think how often you saw Barry scrambling all over the pitch tying to plug gaps, and even Besic in his brief nut impressive cameo for the season. There's nothing quite like the solidity the McCarthy Barry axis gives us.
What you'll notice is a box. A rigid 4. Jagielka, Funes (or Funes Mori but never Mori - sorry pet peeve), McCarthy and Barry. This means the opposition have these four to break through virtually every time the move breaks own and so the fullbacks can recover, or other midfielders can get back. It also means Barry and McCarthy are each far more effective as they can patrol their zone and pick up the runners rather than scrambling frantically.

The solidity we have had through McCarthy in the last few games has then given that midfield 3, particularly Barkley the basis to build and stick to doing what they do best. And hasn't Barkley been a man transformed? Unfortunately, Barry cannot go on forever, but Besic looks a player, and if he can develop the discipline to hold the line the same way as McCarthy and Barry, I really think we can push for top 4 next season. All this and Deulofeu was on the bench and the new lad is still to come in.

This is the football that makes me defend Martinez even in the dark times. It's always going to be inconsistent with young players n key positions, but it's worth it in the long run, and maybe it will have to be next season before we can really see the fruits.

I just hope Lukaku is still buying into Martinez' vision, because if we can keep Barkley and him, and add a couple more, then I really do think we can dream the big dreams.

Great performance. Could have scored more - Kone, what, the actual WTF?!?!?! - but when you go 0-3 up away you soak up that pressure and frustrate the living fuck out of the home fans. Hopefully this sees Stoke slip back whence they came.

My admiration (read: man crush) for Oviedo just keeps growing. It is no coincidence that with him defending and Clev et al taking corners we are more effective than when Baines is in the side. I used to be a huge Baines fan but every match with him is proving he is past his best and every match without him is proving we can cope just fine with that situation.

If these changes stay the same, showing RM has seen his best XI, then credit to him. If he brings his favourites back as soon as they are it then we'll know what his future should be - how many clubs' supporters would be waiting for injuries to see their best side take the field?

Looking to the remaining fixtures, the next four matches (not counting the rescheduled Anfield match as I don't know when that will be) SHOULD bring us four wins, and until the end of the season, I can only seriously expect Arsenal, Man Utd, RS and Leicester giving us any grief, and the OT and Anfield matches are, as much as I hate this phrase, there for the taking.

Oh, and Kone is shit.

Too many knee jerk reactions to disappointments methinks, if theres any chance of keeping this squad together next year we'll be knocking on the top 4 door loudly.

Even though we have scored 9 goals in last 3 games much more pleasing for me is 0 goals conceded. Do I dare to say some lessons being learnt? A winnable game in 5th round of FA cup and then hopefully a good run to the final?

I had written off the season but I'm starting to believe again! I know I should know better but I can't help it!

However a word of caution we have been here before.

It seems sometimes that some are more concerned with being proved right about RM.
If we have a poor performance up they bob again, while if we win they are not around!

Let's be clear about this. Stones and Howard have been responsible for a great deal of oour defensive problems this season and they should have been dropped or "rested" a while ago.

The manager has only changed the team to include Robles and the centre back pairing of Jagielka and Funes Mori because those changes have been forced upon him. Do any of us have any doubt that had Howard been fit he would have come straight back into the side after the Carlisle game?

A wonderful win today and three 3-0 victories in a row is wonderful but let's stick with reality. The manager picks his favourites until he is forced to pick other players no matter how badly his favourites play. It shouldn't have taken almost two seasons of dreadful calamity defending, increasing fan anger, media speculation about his future and injuries for the manager to play the best team that we have available.

Which other premiership team has to go through those things before changes are made for the benefit of the team and the club?

Two 3-0 wins in a row in the league, who'd have thought it.

Men behind the ball and the pressing intensity was noticeably better (but can still come up a few notches), as was the far less messing around at the back and players just putting their foot through it.

The game management has been far better in the last two games.

Lennon, Barkley, and Cleverly were the stand outs from the last two games, Mori also played v well today.

Consistent performances like this are the key, far too often we think we've turned the corner, only for the next game - to be back to lacking intensity and standing off and giving the opposition all the space and time in the world to do damage.

The last two performances are encouraging, but my feet are remaining firmly on the ground, we need to prove this isn't just a flash in the pan.

Up to 7th, confident, we really need to kick on now and prove that we have learnt lessons re defending and game management and see how far we can get up the table.

Lennon, Oviedo, Joel and Cleverley have really taken their chances. We now have games at a good regular pace so there need not be to much chopping and changing. Top 6 is wide open and if we can keep a fairly consistent team on the pitch then we have every chance of making Europe.

To think we have a bew signing to throw into the mix too and in the space of a week thinks are looking up!

I wouldnt take anything less than a top 8 finish now, I don't think that with maybe another good cup run would be disastrous.

Howard ' s been a great servant but it's time for him to move on at the end of the season. If he has the slightest bit of self awareness he'll realise that the fans no longer trust him or want him as their goalkeeper.

Time to go whilst he can still be remembered fondly for the service he's given rather than the last season or two.

I think Martinez is starting to listen and change for once, he's been getting a bit of a hammering in the media including the local press, not before time, and maybe decided to change his stance.

Congratulations to the Liverpool fans today, seriously, having a go at their Directors for raising prices, all fans all over the country should take this call up until clubs start to play the game with us fans, fuck the players they have had more than their fair share, give us fans a taste of what the players have had for far too long.

Great day today and it's weird how a few weeks can change a view of a season.

Balance is restored with Coleman back in at right back and Oviedo at left. Mori's left foot and Jag's right with the Macca/Barry axis restored. Cleverley is a valiant worker on the left, with the intelligence to switch with Barkley or Lennon when appropriate. Even Kone replaced Rom and slotted into the system seamlessly.

Will the boss keep the lads in on merit? Or will we all be brought back down to planet Martinez with the Usual Suspects restored to their plinths when the Baggies come to town?

If Martinez starts picking people on merit like Lennon, Robles, Oviedo, etc, he may go a long a way in winning over all bar his most ardent critics and we should start climbing the table pretty quickly.

Spot on with your observations re James McCarthy, an integral part of this team. Many have eulogised fondly about Besic recently. 2 or 3 good matches tells us he has potential, but still a long way off being the player who Martinez hopes will replace Barry.

Raymond, it works both ways. The first sign of a few clouds clearing and some people are already stripping off and shouting that we're in for a tropical heatwave.

Lets see what happens when both are fit before you give Bobby the freedom of the city.

Perhaps the most significant thing about the team selection for me was the fact that he started Oviedo ahead of Baines. In my view that was the correct call.

Well said. I couldn't agree more on that point. One swallow and all that.
While I'm chuffed (well, relieved) with the recent mini-revival (particularly the clean sheets) I wonder if it's been more luck than judgement with respect to the TH and JS situation?

Here we are again with two thirds of the season gone and we show some signs of life (albeit against poor opposition).

We should be a lot higher in this of all seasons.
I hope Leicester go on to win the title - they deserve it and might go some way to dispelling the half-myth of the financial glass ceiling.

Perhaps it's just coincidence but I often get a 'weird logic' warning when you post.

For example:
"if there's any chance of keeping this squad together next year we'll be knocking on the top 4 door loudly."

So why aren't we knocking on it loudly this year then when the squad is together? I don't suppose that could be RM's fault, could it?

Looking to the future, the fact that there is any doubt in keeping it together couldn't possibly be down to RM either I suppose?

John Stones is going to be a world class player and captain of England for many years. He's obviously been through a bad patch like any young player does after a such meteoric rise but will come good again very soon, here or elsewhere.

To refer to him in the same manner as that oaf in goal is ludicrous and a complete insult. Talk about short memories. Howard on the other hand should never play for this team again and if Martinez, who I otherwise back, picks him he should be fired for professional negligence.

When Ranieri took over Leicester he really had no idea about his defence. He changed the players a few times in the first 7 weeks WWDDWDL and since then has not changed the 'starting line up' of the defence except for injury or suspension and look where they are.

So, Mr Martinez, have faith in the current defenders and don't 'rest' them – all it does is lose cohesion and understanding between players.

Finally, good news is that Mr Martinez's managerial win rate is about 40% this would suggest at least 7 more wins in the next 13 games. If you look at who we have left to play, we could win a lot more than that.

A squad without Besic, Stones and the new player, and a bench that sounded really strong. The starting eleven, playing with balance were three up by half time, and everyone seems happy.

If it's all about learning, then I hope our manager keeps learning, but it's not hard to realize that the most important ingredient is balance.

Swapping Delaufoe, for Kone, instead of Lennon, possibly cost us a place at wembley last week, but if it's true Martinez is learning, then better things should surely follow, and is the reason so many have been so frustrated this season.

No he won't. If he sticks with it and loses, it will be just as bad again. That's just the way it works in here.

If he leaves in summer because he thinks he will do better elsewhere then that is his call and I hope he fulfils his obvious potential. I'm not sure why Everton fans should then have cause to realise the error of their ways.

On Howard; I'm with the majority, he needs replacing but I'm uncomfortable with what I consider disrespectful behaviour being demonstrated to a loyal servant to the club.

I'm enjoying this team just about more than they frustrate me....a joy to watch when in flow!!

Getting the two goal lead when they did posed the big question: could they hold on to it at least till half-time and not only did they do that but Lennon put the seal on it whilst Barkley was off the field.

Should have scored a few more but who cares as long as the defence showed some resilience. Three games without conceding is a big step forward but let's see how things pan out the rest of this month before saying they have turned the corner.

Snap the hand, wrist, and forearm off the club comes in for what Chelsea did last season.

Now here's where I give him full credit for being Tops: a Conjurer.

Somehow, as lousy as he is at his position, (not just lately, but since Roberto inserted him), several of us, somehow, think he'll be a great.

Hand, wrist, forearm and insist on paying the medical bills. Let the chumps who pay for him deal with the consequences.

Of course, it could just be down to a young player still learning his trade, having periods where his form dips....

I think the obstinate one has felt the pressure from all and sundry and there has been a sea change in tactics and attitude by the players too.

No longer are we standing off the opposition and giving them acres of space.

No longer are we second best to the second balls.

No longer are we playing tippy-tappy shite along the back 4.

No longer are we afraid to hoof it when under pressure.

Lennon has also helped as he did when on loan by setting an example with his workrate and determination.

Roll on West Brom and message to Roberto. Go to Jason Derulo's next concert and do not change back to the "polite" football philosophy.

West Brom
Bournemouth
Villa
West Ham
Sunderland

Keep this up and when we play Arsenal on the 19th of March we could be much closer to them then some people think possible...

It's the fucking hope that kills ya.

Cliche - one game at a time. Far too many false dawns to get too excited but hope springs eternal - again for me at any rate.

You do that sort of thing when you're young, talented and, yes, arrogant.

Talent, arrogance....... and hard work (are you listening John?) are what makes the greats great.

I really hope he stays, develops his know-how, and wins trophies with us.

He is special.

Where to start? If the use of 'sad sack' wasn't a shooting offence in and of itself, then following up with the Jimmy Savillesque, 70's school yard term 'tops' takes it..err...over the top (and not in a 'so shit it's actually quite enjoyable if you relax your mind and just go with the meffiness' kind of way, like...say...Sly Stallone earning the love and respect of his estranged son via the heart-warming power of pro arm wrestling in the movie of the same name).

So, now Stones isn't just in a moment of poor form? He's absolutely fucking useless and has been consistently so ever since he first came into the team? So 'lousy' that only 'chumps' would consider him worth significant coin? I know you menstruate from the mouth on occasion but that's got to be one of the more foolish things you've ever come out with.

Still, at least you've got the inside scoop on the secret location where Funes Mori was really fired out of his mothers minge. Uruguay huh? Who knew?

If we can keep our players motivated we will do well.

I do think that passion is a big part to play. While Barkley was great again today, I always wish he had that passionate competitive fiery edge that the likes of creasehead had. Lennon, Besic, Deulofeu, Oviedo, Funes Mori, Robles et al, all have it. It's what we've been missing, that hunger... And it's why I feel our recent performances have improved.

I just hope now that they've got their opportunity and have suitably impressed that they don't loose that determination.

I'd like to see us close other players down more and press further up the pitch as we are very much a defend and counter team at the moment.

I've been crying out for us to defend from the front all season, and with Lennon, Cleverley and Macca in the team we seem to do that a lot better - it's infectious and even Ross is making an effort to tackle more. As a result our defence isn't left wide open, chasing back all the time as we're closing down a lot more, and generally working much harder without the ball.

Robles looks assured and is earning his place in the team - changing of the guard as far as the keeper goes? There's no reason to drop him at this point, even when Howard is fit and I'd leave him in if I was the manager (as I think everyone would!).

To temper it slightly - we played Carlisle in the cup, a terrible Newcastle team and a Stoke team who's form isn't good either. We have WBA next who are also not exactly lighting up the league right now - a great chance to climb the league, and it's also worth noting we're above the RS as well.

See, this is the sort of thing that winds me up.

Show me the first shred of evidence that Stones ego is running wild? Has he recently been spotted riding around on a jet ski spouting Kenny Powersisms or something? Has he given any interviews banging on about how good he is and what he's going to go on and achieve in the game? Nah, the only bigging up of the boy has ever come from the mouths of others. His own manager being the biggest booster of them all.

Ahh, wait on, I forgot the dead give away that demonstrates beyond a doubt that he's dissapeared up his own arsehole. A hand gesture saying he had the situation under control after a few anxious groans at Goodison! To make out an instinctive narked reaction, in the heat of the moment, is a sure indicator of someone having a swollen opinion of themselves is overly sensitive speculation mixed with a soupcon of shite.

From the way people have so readily downgraded their opinion on Stones since that one moment, you would think there were legions of Everton fans unable to sleep that night through pure unadulterated fume at a player having the temerity to say 'keep your fucking hair on'.

If he'd have turned round with a big shit kicking grin, and give it a big Jimmy Krankie style two thumbs up instead, would everyone be saying "Cor, he's a cracking lad that Stonesy. Right wee cheeky chappie and modest as they come"?

There, I said it.

Firstly I suspect you are just plain wrong. There is no chance that bookies have 14 other sides ahead of us to win the league. We are 8th, the only sides below us that any bookie would mark us up to finish below are Chelsea and Liverpool. To boot most bookies wouldn't even give odds because it isn't going to happen.

Secondly I know you have trouble enjoying the moment. Your immediate reaction to a third consecutive 3-0 win in #30 was to complain we didn't score more and have a little rant about Kone. So just for you I will give you a stake free bet in the hope of raising your spirits. I will give £500 to a charity of your choice should we finish 15th or worse.

Take a bow, son

Already my favourite post of 2016.

So, if you care to study the footballing nature of his performances of late – the finer, more subtle things he has 'added' to his game – this arrogance and inflated opinion of his own ability is clear to see.

Cling to your belief that opinion on Stones changed because of his altercation with the fans all you like, but you are wrong, so very wrong! Ever since he wasn't allowed to leave (and his resulting public sulk) there have been occasions where his demeanour on the pitch has been disgraceful, his performances shocking, and his mistakes have often been the result of him believing he can do things he can't at the cost of the team. That's why supporters got upset at his Beckenbauer antics and his response to them was borne of an "I know what I'm doing" arrogance....the same arrogance which has cost us 8 goals. He didn't learn. Arrogance. Seriously John, if you haven't seen a huge change in his attitude and demeanour on the pitch then either you don't attend games or you're suffering the same blinded loyalty affliction once the reserve of our manager.

For what it's worth, I think in time he will be a top player but let us be honest, the writing has been on the wall since August and he has done little, if anything to show us it means something to be at this football club – rather he does everything to show us how good he is. Big difference.

Stones is not a great player, prospect, one for the future, young and developing, or any other description you and others have applied to him. He IS a player pretty good with the ball at his feet. Then what?

What we do know is that he's a CB who's terrible at playing his position. Deny that.

Funes-Mori is already better than him, while still having his own problems adjusting to the league from playing in Uruguay.

It's a peculiar thing that a player who delivers so little is spoken of in superlatives. You're not alone in that. As I said, a conjurer.

Snap off: fingers, wrists, arms, and legs of the first club comes in for "Chelsea" money. Let that club's supporters talk about his "potential", "Maldini", "Beckenbauer", or whatever else about him, while Roberto is spending the money to actually improve the team.

We won't miss Stones.

That's the trouble with these South Americans, they all look the same.

I cannot think of one occasion watching John Stones this season where I have acknowledged 'that is why he is worth £50m'. More often than not I've left wondering 'am I missing something here?'.

Terrible positional sense, throws his arse on the floor every time opposition players go to strike the ball in our penalty area, gives away soft penalty claims with daft challenges ....but hey he can dribble out of defence like Beckenbauer – and sometimes gets away with it.

As for John Daley – well, I guess it's cool to challenge the EFC neanderthal brigade intent on bringing down one of our young gems.

I'll stick to what I have seen. A player who has singlehandedly cost us goals and points this season because of stupid, basic errors. Tell me, how many goals has Funes Mori cost us so far?

£50m??? Yes please. I would gladly wish the boy all the luck in the world but give me a Dave Watson or a Kevin Ratcliffe every time over a John Stones.

Another clean sheet without Tim Howard in goal will have fans foaming at the mouth

So, why haven't you then? I asked for one shred of evidence that Stones has an overinflated opinion of his own ability. Your answer: well...err...he's put in some shit performances since the summer hasn't he and he's made some mistakes that have cost us goals. Like that cuts right to the core of his psyche? Anyone who has ever had anything to do with the lad reports back that he's as level headed a young player as they've come across. Of course, they don't get to sit in your comfy, specially kitted out seat at Goodison complete with great big fuck off Professor X style Cerebro helmet that drops down over your bonce and enables you burrow deep into the darkest corners of men's minds, do they?

Ever thought that the situation with Stones might not be something so simple as a young player wilting under the glare of continual media speculation or struggling to find his best form? Why must his performances on the pitch be perceived as reflections of his ego run rampant?

You've got no insight at all as to what Stones thinks of himself or how he regards his own ability. Which was the entire point I was making. Nothing at all to do with swatting away general criticism of his recent performances.

Perhaps he plays a certain way because it's all he knows or it's how his manager actually prefers him to play? Now, if he was under orders from the top to 'just twat it John' and, in defiance of these defensive instructions, he continued trying to dance his way out of danger, then you might be able to read into such actions attitudinal issues. However, seen as though such words are less likely to roll off Martinez's tongue as "set piece practice starts in five minutes", then I'd say he's been playing exactly as he's been sent out on the pitch to do.

James, seriously....do I have to spell it out?

Funes Mori is a good acquisition that actually was supposed to play similar to Stones. Events dictate that Jags, the old guard, and Funes Mori has to play more Row Z from now on to help save RM's job, and it worked for 2 games. 2!!! Just because we beat Stoke doesn't mean the others below us will roll over. It's the most open league in the whole world.

I savor a win like everyone else but let's not get too excited. We're not in a giant killing spree like Leicester, may they win the title, but it is now far better than what we had in the previous 12 games. But make no mistake, team selection, style tactics, all RM's job. If we win out and get into UCL, kudos to him for being able to turn it around.

I do not, for one bit, think that Stones and Howard played the way they did despite of RM. No, RM told them to and allowed them to. The praises, if you recall, came from RM. Not Stones himself. I said in earlier threads that at any rate, we'll not get £50m for Stones at this rate, so why should we keep carrying that valuation around when we're winning without him. That money is gone. What we can hope for is a good run with or without Stones, get into UCL and use the TV money, among other income, to shore up our defenses, like with a defensive coach.

May I suggest... you are ALL right!

Football is a team game. Yes, a team may be considerably advantaged if it contains one (or more) particularly gifted players, but – as Leicester are clearly demonstrating this season and most brutally in the demolition job they performed on Citteh today - a well drilled, disciplined and determined team can often out oerform a more illustrious side which, on paper, contains far more talented individuals.

By accident or design, or possibly a mixture of both, Roberto fielded the same starting XI in the last 2 games which has looked more balanced - solid in defence and potent in attack - playing effectively as a single unit, rather than several disjointed parts.

That XI contains players who have been missing through injury, or have been given a chance due to injuries to others. Some of those players would not make the club's best XI in a supporters' poll, but they are hungry and driven to retain their place and as a result are playing as well as anyone.

We as supporters should be encouraged by this - that we do have quality back up that can still get us results. Equally, the management should learn we can chop and change the side for the better, rather than persist with a closed unchanging core of players.

Genuine competition for places (and a selection policy which 'rests' poorly performing players and rewards determined, good trainers with a starting place) results in a positive upward spiral as players understand they need to play and train well to retain their place, or risk losing it to a more determined player.

That said, today is the 1st time in 10 months we have won back to back PL games. Let's hope this winning run can be extended. It is still far too premature to claim a corner has been turned, that the manager or his team have been vindicated and all is well at Everton. The team has, in the main, underperformed this season and the results simply have not been good enough.

Oh! And with regard to John Stones, his presumed super inflated ego and claims that Ramiro is a better player and CB than John, I have this to say.

There is no evidence – either on the pitch or in his public utterances – that JS has "a hugely inflated opinion of his own ability." On the contrary, he displays a quiet intelligence, modesty and gratitude for all the game has given him, not to mention the considerable charity work he does in the city.

I really like Ramiro, but if it was possible to post a bet I'd put down good money on a punt that in 10-15 years time football supporters globally will be very aware of who John Stones is and his talent whilst Funes Mori, by contrast, whilst popular, will largely only be known by the supporters of teams he has played for.

You are right of course, but that isn't just a mild breeze you are pissing against.

Stones recent dip in form can be attributed to several reasons. He is a baby by center half standards and still has more to learn than he knows at this stage. He has been played out of position... and his head must be wrecked when he reads every day that all the top coaches in the world (the "chumps") are trying to sign him.

"Am I missing something here?" Yes, Steve, you are. You are missing the development of one of the best defenders this country has produced and you are missing it because you are hankering for the days when "proper" center halves could find Row Z in their sleep.

I have no idea of the character and personality of John Stones. He seems a decent lad listening to interviews.

In my opinion he has a lot to learn re basic defending. You are taught when you are a 12-year-old defender to stay goal-side of your man; John has not done that on numerous occasions. He lets his man make simple, straight runs off him, he has little awareness of space around him when we are defending.

I really hope he goes on to be a top class defender,he is far from that at the moment. A defender’s priority is to defend; if they can play to the ability of Stones, that is a bonus. John can play with the ability of a very good midfielder; at the moment, that is taking priority for some and his defending is a bonus.

RM in giving him the continued freedom to do this in my opinion is also to blame. RM continually says they are learning but when you you make the SAME mistake over and over is it any wonder the fans lose patience.

I said going to the Newcastle game hoping for a good result but having doubts, we won but hand on heart how many were very nervous up to the late second goal that we would give a win away again?

We won with a good score, Stoke are not easy to beat at their place so I give Everton the praise for making Stoke look poor, an excellent team win.

So now onward and upward keeping the same team effort with no lack of skill to put a run together, changing the team when injury or form dips not just for the sake of it.

Seems to be a John Stones love/hate thing going on... to me, the lad needed grounding, far too much media attention on him and he was trying to play up to a reputation. He has plenty of potential but for me is as far if not further away from being world class than Ross Barkley is.

The reaction to any Stones criticism is a bit of a joke. I mean seriously do we have a thing where certain players are immune from criticism and the much maligned manager gets it instead?

Stones has got too big for his boots IMO, the whole "Calm down" against Spurs and glaring at fans on other occassions for daring to shout "Get rid" when he is putting himself in trouble. Throw in the odd bit of finger pointing at team mates when he makes a mistake and he is giving the impression that he thinks he's too good for us. To finish off, him walking off the pitch smiling and having a laugh with Fabregas just seconds after having a win stolen, then lets say "questionable attitude" is fair.

What got him plaudits in the first place was his ability to read a game... not his dribbling skills. He's a defender. FFS people stop saying "enjoy him" like his ball dribbling at the back is essential to us scoring goals. It's no more like playing FA singles in an 11 a side game.

I'm not being critical of the lad, I just think he needs to give his head a wobble, watch how Funes Mori is mixing ball playing and defending. He can become world class but at this moment if he observes the discipline of less talented players like Cleverley, Lennon, McCarthy, Barry then he will go far.

Pleased that Martinez seems to be open to change. This is what we want from a manager. It may not please those who want him gone. For me, it shows he is not as stubborn and arrogant as many believe.

A lot of comments on Stones on this thread and everyone knows his potential. I get the feeling from watching him that he doesn't want to be here and that the transfer speculation has affected him. He's ar too laconic this season, and an unforced period out of the first team will help him re focus.

I have no doubt in my mind that the playing of two relatively young centre halves was a tough task in the Prem; with Jags back, it shows you need an older head at the back to lead and direct matters.

Stones will be a gem but is not in the Jags class yet! But in him he has a great role model. He must learn one important thing: to "defend", track back, cut out the cross and the man – then he will be the player we all dreamed he could be.

Stones is also out of sorts at present and his form has been poor. Can't say I know the reason but he really struggled against Swansea. He needs a few games to rest and come back refreshed. It is better for him, the team and his transfer value if he sits it out for a couple of weeks.

Hopefully the team will sustain its run and a re-introduction into the side will be in easier circumstances.

A incisive searing critique of Stones 'questionable attitude'

Surely not the same Peter Roberts who displayed his undoubted ability to assess the qualities of a footballer player who said just four months ago about Lukaku

"His ability as a footballer is very poor. I don't think I've seen a player with such a poor touch, he can't jump, his runs lack intelligence for this level, and his right foot has absolutely no sense of direction – it's his swinger."

Or even the same Peter Roberts who followed that corker up with

"Stones and Barkley are going to world class levels. Rom is going to be remembered like a "could have been" unless his attitude changes."

Darren and Jay both sum it up nicely. A very talented player, still with plenty to learn who has had a poor run of form. In the very same way Barkley and Lukaku did but appear to have carried on developing, like good young players do.

You can take a lot of good from going to Stoke and winning 3 nil. For one, not many teams score from dead ball kicks into their penalty area, it's almost a given that one of their giants will clear the ball. However, the primary point for me was that we sustained continued pressure throughout the whole 90 minutes, we could've scored 5, 6 or even 7 goals. Yeah, we gave Stoke a right slap.

So, John Stones, it seems that everything has been said in previous posts. But seriously, we are all blues and yes, some do seem to wear blue tinted glasses but I would imagine that most of us can spot a decent footballer. For me, watching John Stones play football is an absolute privilege.

Why three clean sheets in a row?? Confidence, maybe, or just the quality of the teams we have played (but Stoke away is no gimme); fuck knows, but it would seem that RM and his stack of coaches have spotted some of the issues that we have been watching for the past few months. Changes had to be made and they were; No Baines, No Howard, No Deulofeu, No Stones & McCarthy is back on the pitch.

Now it will really be interesting to see who RM plays when the "injuries" have cleared up.

It's absolutely fine to say negative things about players, even those players deemed destined for massive things.... after all they will never be as big as Everton Football Club.

It's funny isn't it. Kone can come on the pitch, 100% pass completion, forces good save from keeper, sets Mirallas up for a sitter and some fans slate him. John Stones plays like a hungover Joseph Yobo recently and it's not his fault because he's "world class".

That's the bit that bothers me. Players get judged by reputation not performance.

You must see what irritates me. It's the fan-boy mentality of fans; apparently Rom and Stones were world class before being world class.

I do think Stones will be world class, as will Barkley. I think Rom will continue to frustrate and amaze unless he can rid himself of his "Hmmm, can't really be bothered today"... what did you think of him in the 3 games prior to yesterday? Personally I thought he went back in time to the games where he wasn't bothered.

You see, these players who we are "so lucky to have" will continue to believe they are better than what they are whilst there are fans so star-struck that they indulge them their arrogance.

Nah, maybe you are right, for players deemed future world class let's just stay in awe of them and not get critical, even when they deserve it. After all that's why we had Naismith, and we have Kone, Osman and Co. If all else fails, it's the manager's fault.

There's nothing wrong with that at all, but I do think there's a real distinction to be made regarding John Stones versus your examples.

He has more ability than any centre half we've had probably ever – and I mean that – ever. Football supporters are very set in their ways (in the main) and when a cultured individual like Stones comes along, it makes certain people feel very uneasy. It's also a British disease – the media build him up, and all of a sudden even his own people turn on him (how dare he/who does he think he is? etc) even when the player himself has not really done very much to suggest he's a bighead (aside from an ill-advised transfer request).

The kid has been put under huge amounts of pressure from us (supporters), our manager and the media, not to mention being heralded as the next big thing by people like Gerard Pique (one of his peers, and I will guarantee you, someone he looks up to massively for obvious reasons), yet as soon as his form dips people are on his case. The incident when he gestured to supporters? Good for him I say – footballers take stick from 40,000+ people every week... yet, when they react, you all start crying about it? Get a grip!

I like footballers with balls, the ability and balls to try things – doing Cruyff turns in your own 6-yard box? Fill your boots son and I'll applaud you when it comes off with a big smile on my face, not berate you for it! Seriously, I'll never get my head entirely round why supporters get so high & mighty about the things footballers do in – let's not forget – the blink of an eye with barely any forethought. Have you ever played football? Do you think everything is pre-planned? Or do you perhaps think that what players do happens instinctively?

I love John Stones, the way he plays, and the things he tries to do with his ability and I for one will be sad when he leaves but I won't blame him or lay into him for it. I'll wish him the very best of luck when he takes his arrogance and ability to wherever he chooses to showcase it. Top players need arrogance – it's what makes them top players. If you want to carry on with run-o-the-mill players who don't show arrogance, then it's a good job you don't support a successful team.

I often wonder, after reading some of the garbage on here, who are the real fifth columnists? A young lad who is learning his trade or some of the wankers on here who's only contribution is to attack, without respite, EVERYTHING about the club from the manager to the players. Win, lose or draw the same fucking negative shite week after week by the holier than thou crew. Getting a fucking grip will yez.

It's funny, the fans who take issue with Martinez "performance ahead of points" mentality actually see time think it's ok to see a young lad gamble with the ball.

There seems to be an extremely pretentious attitude around this ball playing cultured centre half and anyone who doesn't get it is a footballing neanderthal... forgive me for stating the obvious, but defending is about stopping the opposition scoring. Not every cultured footballer is some sort of artist who is sacrificing goals in the sake of his "art"...

Some people lose this minds when players make mistakes - pardon them for being human beings with different was of doing things.

Some people would rather have the same players we have 30 yeas ago - I quite enjoy the modern day version, that's all. I also like that we play out from the back, and don't just hoof the ball back to the opposition - that actually doesn't work either by the way!

I try to avoid describing players as world class as it is a pretty meaningless cliche bandied around wily nily.

You characterise some supporters as 'fanboys', a bit American for my tastes. However you appear to be in that other camp who are best described as 'owl arses'. There are a few who sit around me who seem to get their enjoyment from constantly whinging about players.

You know ' fucking Osman your shite', 'Jesus Christ Barkley lad pass the fucking thing', but whatever floats your boat. You pay your money, fill your boots.

I do think however you wouldn't spot a good player if one bit you on the arse. We have three of the best young players in the country. But players who are still developing and improving. It's actually to Martinez's credit he has persevered when all three have at times had dips in form.

As for Naismith and Kone, if you are serious about breaking into a top 4 I would say they aren't quite good enough. Ossie is a different case, a distinguished Evertonian now reaching the end of his career, but give me him again 10 years younger and I'd snap your hand off.

Finally saw Yobo many times and he was a good player for us, never saw him play drunk though.

I certainly don't subscribe to the Oliver Holt mentality of jumping on band wagons and creating a media hype. Example being poor Tom Cleverley. A lad so nearly destroyed by fans in the way you describe fans who love a moan. I for the record don't moan at players at the ground, so there's one you got wrong for starters. I for one was made up when we signed Cleverley, who in my opinion will play his way into the England team... I was also delighted when we signed Gareth Barry and McCarthy. So no, I don't need my football spoon fed to me.

I look for the fundamentals in football, players being able to control a ball, pass a ball, win challenges, show intelligence, after that I will look at the extras. Some much touted players neglect the fundamentals yet are praised for their FIFA esque attributes. I don't do that.

You do strike me as a man who reads NME and buys his obscure albums based on the odd favourable review. Personally I buy what makes my ears prick up. Pretty much how I view my football.

Final point this isn't about being a clever dick and saying "I said this first" - it's about getting the best for Everton by getting the players performing to their potential. That means every player is accountable for what they do. Even the golden boys.

It's not personal.

I don't agree with having him do the wrong things. Playing it from the back is fine but Cruyff turns near your six yard box isn't right. It's those things that need immediate action and it's the coaching team's job to get that message across.

You're not happy with Rom's consistency? This season he'll be our top league goalscorer since Lineker 30 years ago!

We've had plenty of sides with the fundamental basics. Of course you can't neglect them but if you focus on mastering the basics the best you'll ever be is, erm, basic.

I wouldn't mind seeing us trying to be a bit more special than that and we've got a few players right now who fit the bill.

Far from getting annoyed about that, I actually think it's quite hilarious. I have a wee bet about who will slate player x or y first on TW during a game (you know the favourites to be hated). Others can make a few mistakes and nowt said; hated player makes first mistake (which often is just to be picked!) and the bile spews.

Whats been said above by John, Colin and James makes perfect sense to me.

The closest thing I've seen to Alan Hansen....no, I'm not a red, but Hansen was the best mix of footballing centre back I've seen (too young to witness Beckenbauer) and Stones reminds me of him a lot.

Funny isn't it. The perennial critics of the whipping boys get agitated when one of their glory boys get justifiable criticism... hilarious.

It's as though they are worried the players may log on and review fans thoughts of them.

Well the evidence has been there on your judgement of a footballer.

I refer you to what you said about Rom just four months ago, you know the bit about him being a 'very poor footballer' etc etc. Your opinion on John Stones is equally off the mark.

You mention Barry, McCarthy and Cleverley as examples of players you like, as it happens me too. In fact they would be my first choice midfield three. But all three are experienced fully matured players. They are also the water carriers, essential in any good team but not the players who will make your pulse race or get you on the edge of your seat.

It appears to me you are quite conservative in your footballing tastes, preferring the predictable over the unpredictable. Tried and tested over potential. You were and still are wrong about Lukaku and you will be about John Stones.

i think the last time I read the NME there was a review of 'The Queen is Dead' but you are right I like a little obscurity and novelty in my music selection. Just been revisiting some of my Prog rock collection. So let me stick on something by King Crimson and you can play your Dire Straits CD.

With fans like you who needs enemies

However, he still needs to get his defensive gear together: his heading is relatively weak, his positional awareness is erratic and he needs to toughen up in direct physical contests with opposing strikers.

All of that is entirely to be expected and I hope he stays with us to fulfil himself, though I fear he won't. It's very similar to Barkley last year after his excellent 2013-14. Now we can see Ross tightening up on the basics of ball retention and simple passing while retaining his capacity to do the unexpected and brilliant.

Graham, on the contrary I enjoy watching players with flair. I was frustrated with Moyes lack of use of drenthe and other enigmatic players, because we had none.

My point with Lukaku was valid, his touch and footballing ability was poor, it has got a lot better. Thd fact it got better does not mean that he never had thd touch of an elephant, it still rears it's head but all the same he proved that he could improve... despite many saying it wasnt important it clearly was and is.

No one is disputing how good stones can be or is on his day but ffs this doesn't alleviate himself from criticism. He isn't footballing royalty, we don't have to bow down to him. I have seen him have 10/10 games, Chelsea at home as an example. I have also seen him have 4/10 games.

No one is saying stick him in the cellars with bread and water, we are calling out poor performances which indicate his head isn't right... simple as that.

Can we save all this nonsense and create a list of players we can't be critical of.... make it part of the rules.

Well, you can't get any more 'whipping boy' than someone getting severe backlash when he wasn't even on the pitch to begin with.

Paint those who refuse to reign down righteous wrath on a still wet behind the ears player suffering his first down turn in fortune as 'fan boys', and yourself as some misunderstood conniseur of core 'fundamentals' wrongfully fucked off and condemned as a slack jawed cro-magnon man, if it makes you feel better.

Doesn't change the fact you're making baseless personality judgements that go beyond simply pointing out poor performances on the pitch:

"...these players who we are "so lucky to have" will continue to believe they are better than what they are whilst there are fans so star struck that they indulge them their arrogance."

Go on Dr House, dig a bit deeper with your probing insight and lay bare the 'spoilt bastard centre' at the core of these over paid, primadonna, wide boys.

I'll ask again, where is the actual evidence that Stones (or Barkley and Lukaku if you wish) believes he's better than he is and is adrift on a ship of arrogance sailing straight up his own arse? Don't give me the fact that he prefers to try and take a more measured but sometimes riskier route out of danger, rather than simply smashing it, as a sure sign of anything other than his natural playing style. The very same playing style people were at one point raving about and are now railing against.

I don't have a problem with people finding fault with a players performance, deserved or not. What I do struggle to understand is people taking it a step further and making plucked from thin air presumptions about the inner workings of a players mind, holding said assumption against them and then trying to perpetuate the same self invented myth as the real 'reason' behind every wrong move they make from there on out:

'he's got an inflated ego', 'he thinks he's better than he is', 'he's pissed off his head on his own poncy playing style', 'look at him, strutting around as though he hangs like some John Holmes motherfucker when really he hardly even measures up to Ralph Malph from Happy Days....and that's after he's just finished rubbing one out over Richie's mum'.

It's all bollocks and there's no basis in reality for it other than people getting pissed off at some poor performances, picking someone to point the finger at and then promoting the fact they can see the real problem.

You are accused of not knowing a good footballer from your arsehole. In your defense you cite Royston Drenthe vs David Moyes Walton 2011.

The Crown rests.

Does that mean Stones is crap? No
Does that mean he will go on and be the best centre-half we have seen for many a year, as some seem to state as a fact? No.

Whatever happens with Stones in the future I believe it is wrong for us, as fans, to slag him off. I've been disappointed with his form recently but hope that when he returns he will improve. While he is an Everton player we should support him through both good and bad.

Making attacks on your own players' character without any evidence is wrong, disgusting and counter-productive.

He has tremendous talent but is very young. He's going through a down spell as any player does – especially young ones. The time away he's getting now will do him good.

As for people ripping his "hugely inflated sense of own ability" – get a life. Why do so many people in the game say he can be a future England captain – not just RM?

I'll take the opinions of the experts at Chelsea, those the top level in Spain and ex-players like Rio Ferdinand over people here who rip the character of their own young players.

So I'll stick to my slack jawed approach if you don't mind.

Again, I appreciate the beautiful game... I enjoy watching a young player strut his stuff. I also enjoy watching players learn their craft and adapt. So, in saying that, let's go back to the Europa League game, Stones was dispossessed, gave a way back penalty, red card, lesson learned... well not really but hey he's just a kid.

Roll on many more top end performances, mixed with some bouts of ball watching and yeah we have a 㿞m talent, no question.

You see it all got a bit fraught for him when he was losing his head at the end of those games in January. The reaction at the end of the Spurs game should have been a realisation that he needed to be a defender. Not all park enders are boorish idiots with low iqs who want to moan... they want to win games. Hoofing a ball in the 9th minute is good when it's in your penalty area against a team that presses high.

Stones needs time away, 3 clean sheets, a good partnership between mori and Jags with a big presence in goal. All is good. Not sure why it's turned into a John Stones thread, that was my point in my first post which was some 100 odd posts down.... but hey ho.

Stones is young and is still learning, but he is one hell of a footballer. Okay, he can dwell on the ball too long, and Howard at times, gave him the ball, instead of kicking it up field. But to say we are a better team with Funes Mori is misleading. We are a more balanced team, because Funes Mori is naturally left-sided, and he and Jagielka are a perfect combination.

Seems to have worked with Barkley & Lukaku – any chance Stones will benefit?

Colin 135, who mentioned winning the League, we are in contention for top 6, okay I did not say in contention for top 6 my bad, but I don't think we ever expected to finish top did we? You've got your odds of 15th place and 2,500/1 out of the Beeno Colin, the correct odds are 1,000/1 and for us to finish 9th.

Tony 138, same answer I gave to Colin, who ever thought we could finish top. Leicester are completely breaking the mould for a squad on a shoestring since the Premier League started, no ones come remotely close to doing what they are now. Hope they keep it up, but I think they may fall at the final hurdle.

Brian 149, all players make mistakes its when it leads to a goal conceded that it gets highlighted. Most games are decided by very small margins, sometimes they go your way, other times not.
How many results are decided by deflections, officials poor decisions, injuries, plenty.

I'm more than happy to give him the time he needs to really settle down as I understand he never thought he would be playing so regularly. My point being that when we see a young talent we need to show patience as they will make mistakes, they will go through slumps and they will get tired, physically and mentally, and need to be rested. It's part of the modern game, like it or not

Its always been part of the game. Its just that young players who are thrust into the limelight because they are good enough have much more expectation placed upon them due to the over-analysis created by saturated coverage of football now in comparison to previous generations. Our most successful captain ever, the young Kevin Ratcliffe, emerging from his Everton apprenticeship was allowed to ply his trade and learn his craft only subject to the opinion of the circa 25-35,000 that used to watch him each week plus the local media and occasional attention of Match of the Day. John Stones has the entire global media spotlight scrutinising his every move, energised by a combination of Sky TV, 24hr news, cringingly over-the-top transfer window speculation and a generation of fans who have grown up believing real football actually is as easy as Football Manager 2016 or FIFA 16.

I reiterate, us fans want to have our cake and to eat it; we demand a 21 year old with blatant potential plays with the head and experience of a 32 seasoned centre back. Yes, those who wish are entitled to point out the areas he needs to improve; I am sure this is highlighted on the training ground at Finch Farm also.

I think John Stones aged 28 will be some player. I just hope he is with us then.

JS is a strange debate topic. Talent yes, recent performance no. How do perennial UCL teams get through this sort of talent problem? Coach him well and continue to play him whenever possible.

For now, I just hope our team continues to perform like the past 2 games, putting the opposition to bed convincingly (though magpies win wasn't convincing until late). With or without JS, it is still our club. I remain unconvinced by RM's substitutions (and tactics a little) and can only hope he is not a 1 trick pony (playing only 1 tactic). Still good to have back to back wins.

I love John Stones, the way he plays, and the things he tries to do with his ability, and I for one will be sad when he leaves but I won't blame him or lay into him for it. I'll wish him the very best of luck when he takes his arrogance and ability to wherever he chooses to showcase it. Top players need arrogance – it's what makes them top players. If you want to carry on with run-o-the-mill players who don't show arrogance, then it's a good job you don't support a successful team.

I've been wanting to say something like that all day, James, but you did it far better than I.

The first part of the insult may creep a little too close to 'can't be arsed, so I'll play the cop out card' territory, but combining it with comparisons to a smack addled, sex addicted, scurvy ridden, slop-badger with shit hair and a squawkier voice than the little psychic shortarse from Poltergeist who constantly say's "don't go into the light Carol Anne", really really cuts me to the quick. Seriously, I'm shaking with rage here.

It's like i've spent the day in Darcus Howe's shoes:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Vou_Ani-lKE

Meanwhile, is there a more horrible sight in football than a Costa and Terry goal celebration?

People criticising his temperament need to give their heads a wobble. John Stones seems to be extremely well-adjusted and while I can agree with some of the people criticising to an extent. Insofar as he hasn't been at his best of late and he shouldn't automatically regain his place after we've won 3 in a row. I'm all in favour of players having a level of arrogance in their own ability. I wasn't one of the fans shouting at the Cruyff turns against Spurs. Only a special player would have the nerve to do that, so I will never criticise.

On the other hand, Rio Ferdinand recently said he was glad he didn't have to play under such close scrutiny from the home support when he was cutting his teeth at West Ham. To be fair we're not West Ham United, especially the Yo-Yo West Ham team Ferdinand played in. We've got bigger expectations than that. So there has to be balancing act where a young player can make mistakes that don't impinge on results.

I don't agree with the posters saying Stones is overrated and the most ridiculous one – Inferring that he is somehow playing badly to orchestrate a move are the same sort of shite we've heard from the same posters about Rom and Barkley.

It's immaterial anyway because Stones will be off in the summer unless we have new owners who can match his ambitions. My only worry is that we don't receive the kind of fee the lad's worth. If we get £50m from Real Madrid, Barca or the Manchester clubs he goes with my blessing.

I like John Stones, he is a going to be a great player with a top club, wherever he goes no other manager would give him a pat on the back for doing that and would quickly tell him to cut it out.

He will go at the end of the season and good luck to him with the rest of his career, there will be no hard feelings from most of us on here. Unfortunately we just can not compete money wise with top clubs and the wages they can lash out, so go and enjoy the rest of your career wherever it takes you.

Stones is undoubtedly one of the best talents that I have seen at his age but he needs to learn when to play conservatively when the situation demands. The fact that his defensive play hasn't been up to scratch recently makes it only logical that Martinez continues with the same personnel for the time being - no matter how good Stones turns out to be eventually.

People need to stop trying to proclaim him to be some sort of gift that we must not criticise. Sorry but that's nonsense. I'm more than aware of how difficult it is, I watched Rooney at close quarters, seen him have a run of games that included making Scott Parker look like the proper English prodigy. There was no nonsense interaction with the crowd or anything like that - and he was younger.

I repeat Stones has the makings of a very good player... but seriously between the adulation andtene criticism is probably the sensible balance right now.

Great 3 points, made up with the team performance.

If anyone can show me proof of this I will accept it. Has he tweeted something? Put something on his Facebook page? Given an interview to the media saying he's too good for us? Has a friend or family member spoken of this? Has a team mate let slip that Stonesy wants away or said he needs to move on to be with better players at a bigger club? Anything? Has he done a Berahino? Has he followed in the footsteps of Odemwinge? Has he handed in multiple transfer requests like Rooney and captain creasehead? Has he had a cob on whilst playing for us? Has he refused to play a la Sturridge? Has he been sent to Coventry by his manager?

If any of his detractors can give me an affirmative answer to any of these questions then I'll keep my trap shut and won't defend Stones ever again.

It is unfortunate that his 'poor' spell coincided with the team's 'poor' spell and together with Howard (quite rightly) he has been singled out as part of the problem. Both have been dropped and quite rightly so.

When he did his Pirlo penalty I was one that looked on in amazement at his arrogance and in admiration that we had a young man with the courage of his conviction. When he did his Cruyff twirl I nearly shit myself as we were leaking goals and despite his pirouette it could have led to more abuse from the terraces.

I am curious to know how he will react to being 'dropped' - I hope he comes out and shows his detractors what John Stones is really all about and makes whatever position is right for him his own.

Talking about being curious reminds me that it was not curiosity that killed the cat; it was over confidence! That is what I believe young Stones was guilty of over confidence at a time when his form had dropped below what he have become accustomed to.

Come one John, COYB.

It's encouraging that RM has started to develop depth in changing over this team. Kone had a tremendous start to to the season and now that Cleverly is back from injury it looks like he can play on the left for a bit. Lennon competes with Delo, Mori at CB and Besic at MF. More quality players need to brought in for sure but when all are healthy selection will be a headache.

Let's keep in perspective who we had starting a lot of games this year:

A 21 year-old RB with two Premier League (PL) appearances before this year.

A 19 year-old LB also with two PL appearances before this year.

A CB with 44 PL appliances before this year.

Another CB with 0 PL appearances. At times at least three of them started the same game.

A 21 year-old RW with 25 PL appearances.

A LW with 17 PL appearances in the two previous years because of injury.

This is the best league in the world. It takes time to put this together and inexperience will cost teams wins. Give this time.

People saying that "you can't keep them once their head's been turned" are basically saying the same thing.

If we, the fans, don't believe can you really blame anyone else for thinking the same? Can you blame our board if they cash in?

Nah, the only excuse for selling Stones or Barkley would be a monstrous fee. And we shouldn't be inviting it, as some on here seem to want.

Great players should be with us. We're a great club. Maybe if we believe it, others will.

The irony is that I believe the most harshly treated player is Ross Barkley - and in my opinion he is the most lavishly talented player we have, including Stones and Deulofeu. He is the player that we need to give complete freedom to express himself as long as he isn't messing around in his own half.

The issue I feel is that like some ugly bloke - we should be happy to have a decent looking girlfriend, and if she treats him like rubbish every now and then - well he should just take it because he won't find many like her. The reality is, the girl may actually respect the bloke if he stands up for himself and show that he is quite prepared to dump her.

Everton has a history of top class footballers - every single one accountable for what they do on the pitch. Whether it be Brett Angel or Dixie Dean a poor performance or stupid mistake should be called out.

From boardroom to the pitch, the club needs the highest standards set right the way through. That doesn't mean protests and booing players - it means people being held accountable for what they "do" and not adjusted because of who they "are".

Its funny - every time I watch "fantasy football" with Paul Merson, an ex pro will always have 2-3 players you just wouldn't expect in their team. To the fans these are "average joes" - to the playing professional they are far more.

So why this 3-0 match thread turned into a John Stones debate well before I added my two cents I don't know. For me Jags and Mori were excellent, along with Cleverley, Lennon and Robles it means we have the likes of Stones, Deulofeu, Mirallas and Howard with plenty to do to get in the team.

But Parkinson isn't the difference between winning the title and not. He's the difference between being solid or being a shambles.

Stones could be the difference do I don't want to see him sold.

Also agree on Barkley... though I'm getting a bit repetitive. He's an exceptional player with the potential to be on completely another level from most of the players we rate highly. It will be a sad day of Rooney proportions if we ever cash in. Maybe even worse?

The shame is that great leaders also achieve results, and Martinez seems entirely focused on development.

Maybe it will be jam tomorrow under him and he'll be proven right. He'll certainly stick to his guns, I'll give him that.

Or maybe he'll pay the price and we'll reap the benefits under our next coach.

There's a strong possibility though that he completely misses the opportunity to get the results to hold onto the players he's so focused on improving.

And also if you were a 21 year old millionaire already being touted as an all time England great, where would your head be?

The thing with Stones is, he is a defender first end of. Clear your lines mark your player follow runs, basic defending. Problem is he is doing none of the above and that's why he is getting stick.

There's no doubt he is excellent on ball, the best ball playing center back in the league. But, and here's the big thing: He has to defend!!! Of course he is young and will make mistakes, and I applaud Roberto for letting him make mistakes and keep playing him that's how he will learn. A few weeks out will do him good in my view. Will he be a world class defender? I have serious doubts, will he become a world class ball player? Without a doubt. He reminds me of David Luiz.

Of course, the new TV wealth should enable us to compete better - that's if wage inflation doesn't go through the roof - but the instant glory seekers and their grasping agents will still not hang around in hope, believe me. Only us fans do that.

No, seismic change in the way our club is perceived in the big wide world will not occur because we happened to string together 3-0 wins on the trot. But if the American billionaire about to buy the Club turns out to be Bill Gates, now that might do it !