Everton have all to gain against City - Martinez

London - Everton manager Roberto Martinez said his side have "nothing to lose" when they face Manchester City in a League Cup semi-final at Eastlands on Wednesday.

The Toffees travel to Manchester with a 2-1 lead from the first leg and Martinez believes there's no reason why they cannot go all the way to Wembley despite some poor recent form, including Sunday's 2-1 home defeat by Swansea City.

But Spanish boss Martinez believes Everton have not got full value for their efforts this season.

"You want every player to show the mentality of being ready and that the team can rely on that individual and every player has to have that mentality," Martinez said Tuesday.

"Disappointments are painful at the moment because results have not been fair in reflecting the efforts and football we have played.

"Psychologically you have to go through experiences in order to create that resilience to create that winning mentality.

"When things are going well they (younger players) will get a lot of attention, but in the same way when results are not going well they have to get used to that scrutiny."

Martinez added: "I never manage in a blame culture, I manage in an aspirational manner.

"There are situations you need that (psychological) support but at the moment I wouldn't say that is needed in this team.

"Getting a big achievement and reach something quite special could help to that positive outlook in our games.

"It will be an enormous landmark for the club if we can reach the final of the League Cup.

"I don't think we have anything to lose. Everyone expects Man City to win and to get into the final."

Everton and England defender John Stones has come under fire for overplaying the ball at the back, his error leading to Swansea's first goal on Sunday.

"John is 21 and has played 68 games in the Premier League. I would never judge a player until he plays 100 starts in any league," said Martinez.

"John is the first one to know when he plays well and plays badly. You have to learn from those situations.

"Some of his performances this season have been magnificent. Is he the finished article? Clearly not because he is 21 and has played only 68 games."