Everton must show ambition to rectify recent stumble

The Toffees require an influx of big-game players with robust mentalities and, though Cleverley can help Everton keep things ticking over, the Englishman is a confidence player, not a character who can help dominate duels.

Without James McCarthy, the Merseysiders can lack crunch and ideas, so turning to veteran Esteban Cambiasso as a short-term fix could be an intriguing shout. After helping Leicester City escape the relegation zone, the King Power cult hero is said to be mulling over his options.

Having proven his ability to adapt to England, Everton could certainly do worse than acquiring such a serial winner.

A centre back is also expected to be on the cards, with Martinez believed to be eyeing Crystal Palace defender Scott Dann. In a season when porous Everton leaked goals, Dann’s reputation as Mr reliable would bring valuable competition for Stones and a shaky Phil Jagielka.

An alternative option could be Man Utd’s Jonny Evans, who has fallen severely behind in the Old Trafford pecking order. Although injury-prone, the centre half may be worth a punt in addition to Dann, as he would certainly fit Martinez’s focus on possession football and has top-level experience.

As for the wing positions, wide goal threat is already provided by crafty Kevin Mirallas, so the Toffees (20/1 to win the 2015/16 FA Cup) need a pure provider on the opposite flank.

Barcelona starlet Gerard Deulofeu thrilled Goodison last term, yet has stalled after another loan, this time with Europa League giants Sevilla. Unlikely to make any hay at the Nou Camp now, the Spaniard is believed to favour a return to the Blue half of Liverpool, where Martinez got the best out of the wingman.

Returning for Deulofeu would no doubt be a coup, though a cheaper and perhaps more realistic option would be relegated Hull City’s rampant Robbie Brady.

Irishman Brady could link up with international teammates galore, with Seamus Coleman, McCarthy and Aiden McGeady regularly involved, and the left-footer’s tenacity would add bite to Everton out wide.

It is not just bullish Brady’s grit that would make him a smart buy for the Toffees, however, as the 23-year-old’s consistent crossing threat would surely yield higher assist rates at Goodison.

Everton do not need an extensive overhaul, but fixing these problem positions while holding onto the likes of Lukaku, Mirallas and Stones is essential if the Toffees are to be taken as truly ambitious.