Roberto Martinez has no idea why Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney is attracting so much negative press of late.

The England star has scored just one goal in seven Premier League appearances this season which has prompted plenty of undesired press and according to Everton boss Martinez, it is all completely unfounded.

"I don't understand the criticism," said Martinez as he prepares his side for the visit of United on Saturday.

"If you look at his numbers, his contributions and his availability, you always have players that live off this potential and the signs they had but they are not capable of giving you a proper six, seven years of service.

"What Wayne has given to England is incredible, he is always there, he is always fit; he is always ready to compete.

"I don't think he gets appreciated by the public in general. I think the appreciation from the outside is a lot kinder than it is here. I don't know why. That's the reality."