Everton, since hiring Ronald Koeman, have shown that they have ambitions of breaking into the top four of the Premier League and are no longer content to be classed as a mid-table club. They have made some ground this season and were keeping up with the pace for most of the season, however, they fell short and with a 7th place finish and a summer of changes, they will have their sights set on a Champions League place and here are 5 reasons why.
Ronald Koeman
In Koeman, they have a hugely ambitious manager who won’t settle for a mid-table finish every season. He wants to bring silverware to the club who have been perennial under performers and last lifted a trophy in 1995 (The FA Cup). The big Dutch manager wants to test himself at the very top and European qualification is high on his list of priorities.
The Return of Wayne Rooney
Having been told he is surplus to requirements at Old Trafford by Jose Mourinho, it’s no secret that Wayne Rooney is high on Ronald Koeman’s summer wish list. Rooney, who became Everton’s youngest ever goalscorer when he scored against Wrexham in the then Worthington Cup and followed that up with a stunning 25-yard strike against Arsenal five days before he turned 17. He went on to score 17 goals for Everton in 49 appearances and can now be considered a global superstar.
The Exit of Romelu Lukaku
Romelu Lukaku finished second top goalscorer in the Premier League with 25 goals and will be difficult, but not impossible to replace. However, with a rumoured move to Chelsea or Manchester United on the cards, the transfer fee involved will be huge and should allow Ronald Koeman to buy a ready made replacement and a more ‘team oriented’ player to compliment Wayne Rooney, should he end up at Goodison Park.
Ross Barkley
At just 23 years old, Ross Barkley has room for improvement and should be a mainstay of Everton’s midfield for years to come. He weighed in with 5 goals and 8 assists this season and if he can continue on his upward curve, he will become a valuable asset in Everton’s challenge for a top-four place.
The Dutch Connection
Ajax and their team of emerging talents were outclassed by Manchester United in the Europa League final, but it was an incredible achievement getting that far. Koeman has spoken of his admiration for Ajax captain Davy Klaassen claiming he is an ‘interesting player’. With Koeman’s reputation and contacts in the Netherlands, there should be a never-ending conveyor belt of quality at his disposal.
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