Everton boss Martinez: Stones immense against West Ham

Everton boss Roberto Martinez hailed John Stones' performance for their 1-1 draw with West Ham.

It was Stones' assurance and maturity against a physical Hammers attack which caught Martinez's eye after the final whistle.

"It was a really interesting challenge for John because it wasn't just about defending - it was about leading that back four," he said.

"We had five defenders injured today. John had to lead the defence - and that's where I was most impressed.

"We had Tim Howard and Gareth Barry sandwiching that back four but there were very few Premier League appearances when you look at Brendan Galloway and Ramiro Funes Mori.

"I thought he was immense in the way you have to defend a striker like Andy Carroll, then take responsibility in the way he started the play out from the back. It was a magnificent performance."