Grading the summer transfer window: Everton

Cuco Martina

Cuco Martina has been a defensive liability at times

The Dutch-born, Curacao-representing right back was an intriguing signing for Everton this summer, as he was snapped up on a free transfer following his release from Southampton, where he made 18 appearances under Ronald Koeman back in 2015/16. Due to the long-term injury to Everton’s first-choice right-back Seamus Coleman, Martina has already scooped up plenty of chances for first-team football, both in his preferred position and as a wing-back when the Toffees have used a three-man defence.

Unfortunately, Martina has largely struggled despite being given first-team football by his new club. He was described as a “defensive liability” after a particularly bad performance against Tottenham, and it’s quite clear that as a straight-up right-back he probably isn’t up to the task as Everton’s first choice. He has fared better when going forward though so perhaps – like Michael Keane – a move back to a three-man defence, using Martina as a wing-back, might suit him better.

Overall despite not really standing out either way, he’s still a player who’s been part of a weak-looking defence thus far this season. And at the age of 27 it’s unlikely he’ll improve massively for the future too.

Grading: 4/10