Everton have let in 27 goals in 24 matches so far this season in the Premier League.
Ronald Koeman has responded to Roberto Martinez’s criticism of his Everton defence in the Telegraph.
Martinez accused Everton’s defence of not improving this season, following the Toffees’ 6-3 win over Bournemouth.
However, Koeman insists that Everton’s backline is now stronger under his guidance, and that will be proven by the end of the season.
“First of all he’s a really good talker, a good communicator and all that, as you say,” Koeman said. “He speaks nice and like everybody he is a human being defending himself.
“But, I think it is easy to talk after Bournemouth about the defence but that defence had three clean sheets in a row before Bournemouth.
“And finally the numbers, the stats, it is still not the end of the season so I will wait to give my good answer.”
Everton conceded 55 goals in total last season, with their persistent failure to shut opposition sides out proving to Martinez’s downfall.
Since Koeman has taken charge all has not been solved in a defensive sense, but the Dutch boss does seem to have made the Merseyside outfit more resolute.
Despite Everton conceding three to Bournemouth in their most recent outing, Koeman’s side have only let in 27 goals in 24 matches.
Everton’s form of late has been strong, and they have managed to close the gap on Manchester United, who are directly above them, in sixth place.
The Toffees are next in action later today when they take on Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium.
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