Everton manager Roberto Martinez insists he is happy to have competition for places in his squad as Joel Robles continues to impress in the absence of Tim Howard.

Howard’s performances came under criticism earlier in the season after being at fault for a number of errors which cost Everton valuable points in their hunt for Europe.

Robles has been deputising for Howard for the last two weeks as the American continues to nurse a knee injury.

The Spaniard has certainly taken his opportunity and kept three successive clean sheets to help the Toffees climb up the Premier League table.

However, Martinez now has a tough decision to make as Howard has been working hard to return to full fitness.

The 36-year-old could be in line to take on West Brom, who are priced at 6.00 to be relegated, at Goodison Park on Saturday and will leave the manager with a tough decision to make.

Martinez believes that it is the kind of headache he welcomes and he feels it helps to make the squad much stronger, while keeping players on their toes.

“Joel had to fill in for Tim and has done magnificently well,” said the former Swansea chief. “I have always said that football makes a decision and we want competition for places. That’s what makes the squad we have so competitive.

“We want Tim to be fit, available and raring to go. As a manager, those are the sort of decisions you want to have.”