Everton FC manager Roberto Martinez unlikely to make move for Aidan McGeady
EVERTON are unlikely to pursue their interest in Republic of Ireland winger Aiden McGeady.
Roberto Martinez is chasing a number of potential transfer targets while in Brazil, where he is commentating on the Confederations Cup for ESPN.
Although the Blues are yet to move in the market, there is likely to be an increase in activity from July 1, when the club’s new-look backroom staff will also start to take shape.
While Martinez was keen on Spartak Moscow midfielder McGeady in January when he was still in charge at Wigan, he is now looking at other alternatives ahead of the £4m-rated 27-year-old.
It was revealed yesterday how the Toffees long-standing interest in Japan playmaker Keisuke Honda continues under Martinez, who hopes to rival AC Milan for the CSKA Moscow player's signature.
And next fortnight could also see the arrival of further central defensive reinforcements along with another goalkeeper to deputise for Tim Howard, after the departure of Jan Mucha last month.
Meanwhile, Martinez will go about his business in his new role with the enthusiastic backing of the club’s most successful manager.
Howard Kendall believes the 39-year-old Spaniard will flourish at Goodison after cutting his managerial teeth with Swansea City and Wigan Athletic.
“I think he will do an excellent job,” Kendall said. “The job he did at Wigan, keeping them in the league for so long, and the attractive way he plays football, I’m sure the fans will like that. He’s [also coming here] on the back of an FA Cup win.
“I’ve met him a number of times and he is a true gentleman. I’m sure he will do well.
“I have been impressed [when I’ve been in his company] and I think Bill Kenwright was impressed as well. He must have been.
“I think for Roberto, it’s the right time for him. He’s been linked with a number of clubs previously but it’s right time to come into the big time.”
Kendall said his experience of Spanish football, where he managed Athletic Bilbao for two years after ending his first stint at Goodison in 1987, has contributed to a cordial relationship with Martinez when their paths have previously crossed.
“Roberto normally comes out with a little bit of Spanish to me because he played at Real Zaragoza which is in the Basque area and very near to Bilbao,” he said.
“He introduces himself in Spanish but then we normally get talking in English again.
“I haven’t had the chance to speak him since he got the job but I have left a message wishing him well.
“I am looking forward to seeing him at the start of the season.”
Source: Daily Post
