Scotland international Steven Naismith hopes John Stones decides to stay at Everton despite continuing to be linked with a move to Chelsea.
Everton insist they will not sell the 21-year-old former Barnsley left-back and have rejected three offers from last season’s Premier League champions for the England international, the last of which was £30million.
Previous offers of £20million and £26million have already been turned down by Everton, who are determined to hold on to one of their star players.
Former Rangers striker Naismith hopes Roberto Martinez stands firm on Stones, saying: “We definitely want him to stay. He is a fantastic guy and footballer and a mainstay in our team.
“You want your best players to be here to hopefully continue bringing success to Everton.”
Meanwhile, the 28-year-old admits he is disappointed to have been left out of Martinez’s starting line-up for the first two Premier League games of the season against Watford and Southampton.
Naismith scored seven goals in 31 league games last season but Everton started with Romelu Lukaku and Arouna Kone in attack against Southampton.
“I was disappointed not to start in the game against Watford but then you look at the boys who scored and done well and accept that and bide your time,” added the Scot.
“Last season, I felt I contributed a lot to the squad but it’s down to me to work hard and wait for the opportunity to come.”
Everton, 21.00 to finish in the top four of the Premier League this season, are 5.00 to beat Manchester City on Sunday.
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