Everton coach Roberto Martinez has claimed his side produced a “fearful” performance during the 2-0 defeat to Arsenal on Saturday.

The Toffees were hoping to climb into the Premier League’s top 10 on Saturday but they remain in 12th place after a disappointing display.

After knocking Chelsea out of the FA Cup last time out, Martinez’s men were expected to push their opponents all the way at Goodison Park.

However, goals from Danny Welbeck and Alex Iwobi gave Arsenal all three points to help them put pressure on Leicester City and Tottenham.

Many expected the Gunners to struggle after their midweek European commitments, but Everton never got going and the Merseyside outfit once again failed to deliver in front of their own fans.

Speaking after the game, Martinez conceded that his side were second best throughout the encounter.

He told The Mirror: “There is no excuse to perform in the manner that we did. Arsenal were better than us in every single performance.

“Arsenal had good focus and intent and we didn’t turn up. We haven’t performed that badly this season. We looked like the team that had had the extra game. It’s very disappointing.

“We were very, very slow in our build up and were reactive, we didn’t anticipate any play. It was a fearful performance.”

Martinez will hope his side can respond in their next league clash against Manchester United.

The Red Devils are 2.05 to win, the draw is 3.30, and Everton are available at 3.50.