Martinez looks for goalkeeping solution

Joel Robles future seems to be in doubt at Everton after a string of disappointing results Credit: PA

Everton manager Roberto Martinez's targeting of a long-term goalkeeping solution in January would appear to put the future of Joel Robles in doubt.

The 24-year-old Spaniard is currently deputising for Tim Howard, who is sidelined for six weeks with a calf injury, and while the Toffees boss will look for additional cover while the transfer window is open he is not considering a quick fix.

Both experienced United States international Howard and Robles have three years remaining on their contracts, with the former signing a two-year extension last April and remaining first choice even though Martinez signed Robles, with whom he had worked at Wigan on loan from Atletico Madrid, when he took over at Goodison Park in the summer of 2013.

Robles potentially has a few weeks to convince his manager he can do a job for him but Martinez is already looking at alternatives.

Robles will continue in goal against West Ham on Tuesday, an FA Cup tie in which Martinez admits his side need to put in a performance to silence the doubters.

His team have lost their last four matches and have just one win and a draw in nine games, a run which has seen some fans begin to question the Spaniard's suitability.