Everton Chairman Bill Kenwright is sometimes criticized by Evertonians for being out of his league in the way that he manages the club. In a perfect example of this, today he blurted out in the Roberto Martinez press conference that almost the first words out of Martinez’s mouth was that the Spaniard will get Everton into the Champions League.

While those are lofty goals both for the club and manager, it’s inappropriate to share that expectation with the public. Yes, every manager wants his club to qualify for the UEFA Champions League, but it’s another thing entirely to say that in a press conference, which puts undue pressure on Roberto Martinez in his first day on the job.

It’s the type of silly comment by Kenwright that could come back to haunt Martinez. He’s moved to a club that has limited transfer funds, has lost its manager and will be losing most of the backroom staff, a key player at the club has retired and two of their star players look set to leave Merseyside this summer.

Judging by Martinez’s facial expression and his body language in the press conference, Roberto Martinez wasn’t expecting Kenwright to share the Champions League promise. Kenwright would have been better off telling the press and Evertonians that he would expect Everton to continue to challenge in the top six or seven each season under Martinez, and hoping for a cup run or silverware. To set the expectations of the fans, and the media, that Everton will qualify for the UEFA Champions League under Martinez is irresponsible and adds immense pressure when there doesn’t need to be any.

On top of that, Kenwright’s words reflect poorly on the herculean efforts that Moyes made to get the club to where they are, punching above their weight. To make public a goal that Martinez shared privately diminishes the achievements that Moyes has made. And frankly, it’s a slap in the face.

What are your thoughts about what Bill Kenwright said at the press conference at Everton today to unveil Roberto Martinez? Do you agree or disagree with what he said? And do you think Martinez can get Everton into the Champions League or not? Provide your opinion in the comments section below.