Roberto Martinez's Everton future will be in the balance if they lose to West Ham

Everton manager Roberto Martinez will come under huge pressure should his side fail against West Ham

Tuesday's FA Cup tie between Everton and West Ham United may be among the last of the Third Round ties to kick off but it has suddenly become extremely important for Roberto Martinez.

The Everton manager is under growing pressure and scrutiny after four straight Premier League losses which has seen his team drop to 13th in the table, just four points above the relegation zone.

Martinez has not been in any immediate danger of the sack but should Everton produce another poor performance and a result in the cup then questions will start to be asked as to whether the Spaniard can turn it around.

He needs to show signs that he can do that. And quick.

Martinez signed a new five-year contract at Goodison Park in June after an outstanding first season at the club and also benefitted from significant investment in the summer – not least turning Romelu Lukaku's loan move from Chelsea into a £28 million transfer.

The alarm bells are not ringing yet for him. But it might not be too long before they do.