Gareth Barry has stated that Yaya Toure's laid back style belies his impact on a football pitch.

Everton prepare to square off against Manchester City in the semi-final of the Capital One Cup at Goodison Park on Wednesday night and ahead of the game, Toffees midfielder Barry denied claims that former teammate Toure has recently been playing below his best as some critics suggest.

Barry stated that Toure remains a huge threat despite his perceived lack of effort and has backed the Ivorian to guide City to honours this season.

Barry said: "That's just the type of character he is.

"He gets criticism because of his style. Sometimes he just looks like he is waiting for it to happen or waiting for them to go behind before he turns it on.

"But that's just Yaya. He's always been like that. People get frustrated with him but when it comes to the business end, people like Yaya will win you cups and titles.

"I'm not going to say he runs around and covers the most ground because the stats are there and it is clear to see that's not him. But when it comes to producing the goods, he is capable and he has shown that through his career.

"People have been on their backs, saying they wait until they need to turn it on but the quality is obviously there. When it comes to the business end, they will produce and, for me, they are the favourites to win the league."