Roberto Martinez dismisses Ross Barkley 'rumours'

Everton manager Roberto Martinez dismisses reports linking midfielder Ross Barkley with a move to Manchester City as "rumours", but says the speculation is a "footballing compliment".

Everton face rivals Liverpool in the Merseyside derby on Saturday, and the Spaniard expects his side's defence to improve, admitting that it has been "poor" so far this season.

Martinez says the derby is building up to be "one of the best", and is keen to get back to winning ways after his side's "spooky" defeat by Crystal Palace on Sunday, and League Cup exit in midweek.