Roberto Martínez attempted to shrug off reports that Manchester City will pursue Ross Barkley by taking it as a compliment.

Barkley is one of the most coveted young players in England and there were published reports this week that Chelsea and Manchester City will try to pry him from Everton.

“It’s a rumor and we’ll leave it there," said Martínez. "We’ve spoken enough in the past about potential interest and I always mention the same – we take it as a footballing compliment and we’ll move on.

“All we want from Ross now is to be able to get him fully fit and get him ready to enjoy his football and help the team. We are looking forward to that day.”