Funes Mori nearly joined Chelsea

Full-back Coleman and midfielder Besic both came off in the 3-1 home win over Chelsea last weekend due to hamstring problems.

Newly acquired stars such as Tom Cleverly, Aaron Lennon and Ramiro Funes Mori could well have successful seasons at Goodison Park this campaign, but are they names worthy of releasing some new levels of excitement in and around the club?

“It can be said that it’s my second spell at England – I did a trial for Chelsea a few years ago alongside with my twin brother”.

‘We stayed at Chelsea for two weeks but had to leave because we didn’t have an European passport. Although no one quite foresaw a Steven Naismith hat-trick to see them through against the league title holders in the end, the manner in which the Everton players took to their roles last Saturday was truly an enthralling sight to witness.

Everton boss Roberto Martinez has refuted claims that the club were considering to sell Steven Naismith, after the player himself admitted he was on the verge of a move to Norwich City.

However, the 24-year-old could have played for Chelsea against the Toffees if it wasn’t for work permit issues, the player has revealed.

Funes Mori’s winning of the Copa Libertadores with River Plate in early August counted in his favour as Everton fought to push the deal through.

Unfortunately, because neither of them had a European passport, the move couldn’t be finalised but he did point out that he still doesn’t have one yet he is now at Everton. It’s true that Villarreal were after me too, but I didn’t even hesitate when Everton called me.

But the 27-year-old has since said he is happy at Goodison, and Martinez has told him he will need to be patient and seize his chance when it comes.