Everton manager Roberto Martinez was once again left to lament the English summer transfer window.

The Toffees boss was asked about the future of promising defender John Stones yet again after his side managed to overcome Barnsley in the second round of the Capital One Cup.

21-year-old Stones is a target for reigning Premier League champions Chelsea but Everton are desperately trying to keep him away from Stamford Bridge, highlighted by the fact he started at Oakwell just a day after reportedly handing in a transfer request.

Martinez is not a huge fan of the transfer season continuing while the playing campaign gets under way and re-iterated his thoughts on the issue following his side's 5-3 victory over the Tykes in the league cup.

"John, for a young man under massive pressure, was terrific," said Martinez.

"I am repeating myself but I don't think it is right for the football authorities to allow the window to be open when there are important games.

"We shouldn't put our players under that massive pressure. It becomes a bit of a circus.

"The situation with John is very clear. We care about him, we will protect him and make sure we give him everything we can to allow him to enjoy his football.

"Clearly we have got to a point - in life and football - when sometimes money can't buy everything and I think that is going to be a very strong statement at Everton.

"We have a chairman who will do the right thing for the club and for the team and as a true Evertonian we are clear he will not be easily influenced in taking the money and accepting things which will clearly make our team weaker.

"This is not a moment of the campaign when we can use any money to get us stronger."

It is expected that Chelsea will return with a £40million bid for England international Stones before Tuesday's transfer deadline.