Everton manager Roberto Martinez reserved special praise for midfielder Gareth Barry following the 2-1 win over Manchester City in the first leg of the Capital One Cup Semi-Final.

The 34-year-old put in an assured display at the base of midfield for the Toffees and his performance was not lost on his boss Martinez who was full of plaudits for the veteran.

"I think Gareth is very underrated," said Martinez. "He is one of the big reasons why we have so many successful young players here.

"He is a leader. I have never seen a player with professionalism and daily standards like him.

"For me, he is one of the best ever English players. He could end up reaching 600 Premier League appearances and that's because you can build a team around him."