Everton defender Leighton Baines has revealed that manager Roberto Martinez has "freshened things up" since arriving at Goodison Park in the summer.

Martinez has guided Everton to fifth position in the Premier League table this season, and after Baines committed his future to the club last month, he has admitted that the current mood on Merseyside helped convince him to remain at the Toffees.

The 29-year-old told the club's official website: "It has been really positive for the most part this season and I've been really impressed with the manager's approach to everything.

"The various aspects to what he does and the way that we approach games is asking new questions of all of us, whether you've been here a few months or a few years.

"It is challenging and has freshened the place up. It was a fresh start for all of us and it was exciting because it was such a change and that was a big part of it."

Baines has featured for Everton on 19 occasions this season.