http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/everton-news-january-isnt-make-10666859
Everton news: January isn't make or break for Kevin Mirallas - he's in our long-terms plans, says Roberto Martinez
Everton manager adamant that Mirallas has a role to play despite being rested for Stoke clash
Kevin Mirallas is not facing a period which will define his Everton future insists boss
Kevin Mirallas does not face a month which will decide his Everton future insists Roberto Martinez, who has given the winger his long-term backing.
The Belgium international was rested from the squad which suffered a last-gasp 4-3 defeat by Stoke City on Monday despite impressing in the previous win at Newcastle.
Martinez maintains that the 28-year-old, who signed a new three-year deal in August, was only omitted to prevent injury taking further toll on his fortunes this term, and expects him back at his best for an important month ahead.
Kevin Mirallas takes on Vurnon Anita and Daryl Janmaat of Newcastle United
He said: "I wouldn't say it's a pivotal month for him. What's been important is for Kevin to keep himself fit and working hard.
"The little niggles he had at the start of the season stopped him from being at his very best but against Newcastle he was sharp.
"Playing two games in three days was something we had to be very aware about.
"But Aaron Lennon and Kevin being two sprinters meant we had to protect them. They both bring something very different. Clearly we have real strength and numbers.
Aaron Lennon was also rested against Stoke due to fitness concerns, says Martinez
"But they both had to take their opportunities against Newcastle and they both did that.
"They will play an important role in January but it's important for us all as a team."
Martinez repeated his belief that Everton's season will truly achieve lift-off when they solve the problems which see them keep conceding so many goals.
"We just need to stop conceding the goals we are and giving points away softly," he said.
"We're halfway through the season and if we have change of mindset we can really take advantage of the second half.
Kevin Mirallas can still be a big player for the Blues this term