Everton boss Roberto Martinez hails Bill Kenwright over John Stones transfer saga

Kenwright released a statement on Thursday declaring that Stones' attempt to force through a move to Stamford Bridge would not be considered after three bids were rejected for the 21-year-old.

Martinez has remained steadfast in his belief that Stones would not be sold and credited Kenwright for also remaining strong with a declaration he hopes will now draw a line under the whole saga.

"The chairman was really strong yesterday, he's put things very, very clear," said the Spaniard, who also revealed he hopes to complete the signings of South American duo Ramiro Funes Mori and Leandro Rodriguez on Friday. "It's vitally important to show that we have got our own ambitions and our own projects and we don't rely on big offers coming in.

"The chairman was very, very clear yesterday. Many, many football clubs would have tried to get the biggest deal they could do and take the money and allow the sale to happen.

"It shows we've got an incredible chairman and all he wants is the best for the football club, he's being doing that for many, many years and hasn't been given the credit he deserves.

"Every single Evertonian can be extremely proud to keep one of our most treasured younger players and make sure we build a winning team.

"It seems like money can buy anything these days and clearly what we stand for at Everton is more important values - in football and in life - that they are more important than money."