Influential in that fight back was Romelu Lukaku, as after being introduced by Koeman as a 38th minute substitute the 6ft 3in Belgium global added a powerful dimension to Everton’s attack, which was previously being contained easily by West Brom.
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“He spoke to me yesterday morning (to say) that he made the decision by himself to stay at least one more season at Everton and that is great news for everybody”.
The 23-year-old had reportedly asked for a move away from Goodison Park and was linked with a return to former club Chelsea during the summer. The Leicester boss has already signed Luis Hernandez from Sporting Gijon on a free transfer to support Wes Morgan and Rob Huth, both of whom played invaluable roles in the East Midlands club’s remarkable title success last season.
The Toffees manager also hinted at the possibility of a new contract for the Belgium global.
‘We played well but it was still hard, ‘ he said.
Cape Town – Everton manager Ronald Koeman has praised striker Romelu Lukaku’s decision to remain with his club despite reported interest from Chelsea.
“It was a tactical change”.
“I was not doubting the player or his qualities”.
Everton struck back with a lovely team goal that was finished off by Kevin Mirallas in first-half stoppage time. I think 1-1 close to half-time is a key moment in the game. A different situation for us in the dressing room and for them. Good football. The subs had a big impact but we forgot to kill the game.
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Barkley should have extended the lead after 72 minutes but powered a near-post header wide from a pinpoint cross by substitute Yannick Bolasie, making his debut following his arrival from Crystal Palace.
