Everton manager Roberto Martinez has revealed that Chelsea’s pursuit of youngster John Stones has affected the defender.
Chelsea have seen two bids of £26m and £20m been rejected by Everton, with Martinez now stating that the saga has began to have an impact on the English youngster.
“Yes (it has affected him) and you hope you learn from it and become more mature,” said Martinez. “Clearly, John is one of the outstanding young talents we have in the squad and you are going to get interest. That is a positive.”
“Our focus is on Watford this weekend. John is an Everton player.”
It is understood that Chelsea will not give up their pursuit of Stones, with a fresh £30m pound bid expected to be tabled in the coming days.
When asked if every player has a price, Martinez responded:
“You shouldn’t worry about situations you cannot affect.”
“When you are not a club who is actively trying to sell players it means the focus is all about trying to win this weekend.”
By Ollie Brown @olliebrowner_