Everton

Roberto Martinez reveals Real Betis friendly excitement

By Paul Gorst, Reporter | 09 August 2013

Everton manager Roberto Martinez says that he cannot wait to begin life in front of the Goodison Park crowd, starting with Sunday's friendly against Real Betis.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez has revealed his excitement at the thought of finally playing in front of a Goodison Park crowd against Real Betis on Sunday.

The Blues face the Spaniards in their final friendly ahead of the new Premier League season, and Martinez said that he is looking forward to beginning life as the boss in front of a home crowd this weekend.

"The supporters have been magnificent so far and that togetherness is important and I can't wait to feel that at Goodison Park," Martinez is quoted as saying in the Liverpool Echo.

"It's about the players first not the manager, but of course I'll be a proud man. It's going to be something I'll remember for the rest of my life. It's a good way to sign off pre-season.

"It's going to be an important work-out. It will be good to say 'hi' to the fans because our first Premier League game is away from home. Hopefully it goes well and we can have a successful time together."

Martinez took over from David Moyes earlier this summer after the Scot departed for Manchester United.