Are these the 5 positions Everton must improve to challenge next season?

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1. Goalkeeper

In some ways, the No. 1 position at Everton still remains an issue that needs a solution; and promptly. It seems certain that Howard is nearing the end of his time on Merseyside and that leaves just Robles and youngster; Stanek, at the club. Martinez has given the No. 1 shirt firmly to Robles, but whether he remains in this position next season remains to be seen.

Robles is a popular figure at the club (well certainly in comparison to Howard) but defeats at West Brom, and letting a 2-0 lead slip against West Ham, shows that this change has not solved Everton’s defensive fragility. The Spaniard largely can’t be blamed for the goals conceded, and another season of experience and confidence might serve him well in his quest for first choice Everton goalkeeper. If this is the case, Everton still require a young under-study.

However, with the injection of money into the club, some fans have called for an experienced head to instead replace Joel. Players such as Cech; understandably, wouldn’t leave their club, and those with potential such as Butland would still be out of Everton’s transfer budget. It would be down to Everton’s scouts to highlight the perfect target.

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2. Right Back

While there seems to be a plethora of options on the left side of defence, Everton are short on the right. Hibbert has most definitely entered his twilight years, and youngster, Browning, is out for the season with injury. Stones has covered there, but he’s uncomfortable in that position. That only leaves the rather out-of-form Coleman; no-one can quite put their finger it but he doesn’t seen the player he was. The Irishman doesn’t seem to pose the attacking threat he once did.

Martinez chased the young talent Sam Byram in January as competition and cover for Coleman, but he chose West Ham as his destination. Someone of this ilk would suit Everton in the summer.

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3. Centre Back

Everton have arguably the first choice England centre-half pairing, and yet they are still incapable of holding onto a lead. The pressure that has mounted over recent months on John Stones has certainly told, and this has shown with his performances on the pitch. Stones is an undeniable talent, and one day might truly be world class. However, at present it’s probably the right choice by Martinez to take him out of the media limelight by benching him. Mori has proven a capable purchase, and formed a stable partnership with Jagielka.

With Everton’s leaky defence still continuing to exhibit itself, another solid centre-back is undoubtedly needed. However, there seems to be two camps on this debate. There are those that wish to purchase a player suited more to Martinez’s style who is comfortable on the ball, and playing out of defence; and those that want a “traditional centre-back”. The sort of defender willing to metaphorically throw themselves in front of a bus for the team, get a head on every ball and a foot in every tackle. A player in the mound of Terry or Shawcross beside Stones/Mori might prove the foundations of a solid, formidable defence in the future.