Everton boss Roberto Martinez was full of praise for hat-trick hero Arouna Kone following the 6-2 win against Sunderland yesterday.

Martinez also praised the Ivorian for battling back from the horrendous knee cartilage injury he suffered in his first year with the Toffees.

"His springboard was in the opening game of the season against Watford," Martinez said.

"He had awful luck with an injury which was career threatening at one point. It became very difficult and then in that season he never got the match fitness that he needed.

"I thought when he came on as a substitute against Watford he showed he could help the team and that he was himself it was an incredible turning point for him.

"From that point on we've seen a very strong footballer."