Everton 3 Newcastle 2: Martínez hails ‘unplayable’ Lukaku

Roberto Martínez hailed “unplayable” Romelu Lukaku after Everton were comfortable winners against Newcastle United at Goodison Park.

The Belgium international, who moved on a season-long loan to the Toffees from Chelsea on deadline day, opened the scoring as he steered Kevin Mirallas’ cross past Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul.

Lukaku played a part in Everton’s second as Ross Barkley finished from the edge of the area before the 20-year-old outfoxed Krul to notch his second of the night in the 37th minute.

Newcastle did respond after the interval as Yohan Cabaye gave the visitors of a comeback with a 51st minute strike before Loic Remy scored a late consolation.

“The first half was so dominant that sometimes unconsciously you drop the tempo, but overall I was pleased that we controlled it for long periods before their late second,” Martínez told Sky Sports.

“For a number nine to have that awareness of what was going on around him, Romelu Lukaku was unplayable. He is going to get stronger and the players around him will learn how to play with him.”

On Barkley, the Everton boss added: “Ross Barkley is the sort of player who controls things in midfield that is unusual in a player his age. I think he is an exceptional ambassador, not only for Everton but English football as a whole.

“It is almost a question of keeping him away from the training ground because he is so eager to improve himself!”