Everton midfielder James McCarthy is expected to remain with the club long-term according to boss Roberto Martinez, despite interest from Arsenal.

Arsenal have been heavily linked with a January move for the Republic of Ireland international as Arsene Wenger looks to solve some of the issues in his squad.

However, after a week of speculation, Martinez has spoken out and insists that he is not prepared to allow the midfielder to walk out of the door.

Martinez signed McCarthy for the second time in his career after leaving Wigan to take over from David Moyes at the Toffees, shelling out £13million to make him the club’s second most expensive player.

The 24-year-old has not let the Spaniard down and has impressed on Merseyside, attracting the attention of Wenger.

Martinez said: “We rate him very, very highly, otherwise you will never have seen the sort of investment we put in him 16 months ago.

“I’m delighted with his form. He can grow and get better. He’s got a long-term contract. I see the interest and the potential interest, and it’s a compliment.

“But James is a player we look forward to see in the Everton top for a long time.”

Everton can be backed at 1.52 to win when they take on Hull, who are priced at 6.40 to claim all three points at Goodison Park.

Everton may be without the McCarthy for the Tigers’ visit as he is struggling to overcome a hamstring problem.