Player profile – Cuco Martina

Despite being born and raised in the Netherlands, Rhu-endly Aurelio Jean-Carlo Martina, or Cuco to his mates, is a seasoned Curaçao international.

Standing at 6ft1, Martina is predominantly a right back but has been known to fill in at centre half.

He is a familiar face to Ronald Koeman, having played under him at Southampton so he knows all about Martina’s strengths and weaknesses. Whose judgement is better than the man in the L4 hot seat? If Koeman is happy with Martina, the Goodison faithful should be happy.

With a necessary increase in squad numbers needed to cope with a European adventure on the horizon for Everton, plus the devastating loss of mainstay right back Seamus Coleman, cover is key.

Mason Holgate is not a right back. Nothing more has to be said about that.

On the other hand, Jonjoe Kenny proved his quality in the 16/17 campaign, captaining the Blues’ under 23 side to the league title followed by a stunning World Cup triumph.

But the inexperience of youngster will require cover in itself. And that is exactly what Martina will provide.

A bit part player on the south coast, making just the 36 appearances in the two seasons he spent at St Mary’s, he netted just the one goal.

But what a goal it was.

Who knows, Martina might thrive on consistent playing time and make that right back spot his own. Making it difficult for Coleman find his way back in the process.

Costing a grand total of zilch, no loss can be made on the player if that turns out not to be the case.

So let’s not judge a player who hasn’t even kicked a ball in the royal blue – we’ve nothing to lose and all to gain.

Up the Toffees.