Everton could be without McCarthy, Barry for League Cup clash

Everton may be unable to call upon midfielders James McCarthy and Gareth Barry for Tuesday's League Cup quarter-final at Middlesbrough, with the duo picking up knocks in Saturday's 3-3 draw at Bournemouth.

Manager Roberto Martinez has confirmed that both players will undergo late fitness tests ahead of the trip to Teesside.

"James overextended his upper hip muscle, a little bit higher than the groin. It was quite sore yesterday, but we'll find out more today," Martinez told the club website.

"The same can be said for Gareth Barry. He had a really nasty knock in the shin area with stud marks and was finding it difficult to walk yesterday."

The Spanish boss praised Tim Howard for his performances after overcoming a difficult run, but confirmed that Joel Robles will continue to represent the Toffees in goal after lining up in the previous three rounds of the competition.

"Joel Robles was man of the match in the previous round," he added. "He will start the game tomorrow."