Everton manager Roberto Martinez has praised the contribution of Nikica Jelavic to his team's pre-season win over Blackburn Rovers.

The Croatian striker scored twice at Ewood Park as the Toffees earned a 3-1 victory over their Championship opponents.

"He is desperate to help the team," Martinez told the club's official website. "He has come back fully focused and I thought his work rate was fantastic and he was a real threat in front of goal.

"It's really pleasing when you have got Nikica Jelavic, Arouna Kone and Victor Anichebe, who has been playing really well in the last two games before today.

"There is Apostolos Vellios as well, so that shows you the competition that you want in the squad going forward."

Everton return to pre-season action on August 11 when they host Spanish side Real Betis at Goodison Park.

Written by
Jack Prescott