LIVERPOOL -- Roberto Martinez says Everton striker Romelu Lukaku does not need a rest despite his struggles for form in the wake of the World Cup.
Lukaku, 21, hit 16 goals in 33 appearances while on loan at Goodison Park from Chelsea last season, but has scored only twice in 10 games since making the move permanent during the summer.
The Belgium international has started all seven of Everton's Premier League matches this season, but is still feeling the effects of playing for Marc Wilmots' side at the World Cup in Brazil, according to Martinez.
However, the Toffees' manager feels his club-record 28 million-pound signing will regain his best form by continuing to play regularly.
Martinez said: "I think Rom needs to be playing, to get his match fitness. And he's too important for us. We can't afford to give him any resting period.
"I don't think that would help him towards getting to the best level of fitness.
"What I love about Rom is his attitude. He never makes any excuses or moans. He just wants to be on the pitch to help the team."
In addition to his club commitments, Lukaku featured in both of Belgium's Euro 2016 qualifiers during the recent international break without scoring, coming on as a substitute in a 6-0 victory over Andorra last Friday before starting the 1-1 draw with Bosnia-Herzegovina.
"I think Rom has been incredible in making himself available for the games that he has. He's played a lot of games," Martinez added.
"His desire to help the team has probably stopped him from being able to concentrate on being fully fit.
"The reality is that over the next few weeks, we're going to concentrate on trying to give him the physical element that he needs. But Rom is a young man who is going to be a very important player for us."
Lukaku is expected to retain his place as Everton -- currently fourth from bottom of the Premier League -- seek their first home win of the season when they host Aston Villa on Saturday.
England midfielder Ross Barkley could also be involved in the squad for the first time this season.
The 20-year-old returned to full training on Monday, having recovered from medial knee ligament damage sustained in training on Aug. 15.
Martinez said: "He's really close. He's had a very good period of work. He re-joined the group on Monday and he's reacted extremely well.
"Sometimes you forget what a sensational footballer he is, and when you seem him in full flow, you realise those qualities are infectious around the place.
"He's desperate to play, and his work this week has been very, very good. It's too early to tell if he's going to be involved on Saturday, but I don't see him being too far away."