Speaking at his press conference to preview Saturday’s Premier League campaign-opening clash with Tottenham at Goodison Park, he said: “It is a nice challenge, it is a big project and that project is starting”.
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Everton paraded Ashley Williams on the pitch before kick off though the new signing from Swansea was deemed too short of match practice to make his debut in Ronald Koeman’s new look back three.
However, they should face a motivated Everton side as they endured a poor season a year ago and new boss Ronald Koeman is determined to improve upon their 11th-placed finish from last term.
Barkley delivered a free-kick that eluded everyone, including Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris, who delayed his dive anticipating a touch from an Everton head and watched the ball nestle inside his left-hand post.
Koeman, who is looking to rejuvenate Everton after leaving Southampton in June to succeed Roberto Martinez, said: “I am happy about the team performance”.
Manager Mauricio Pochettino finally chose to twist 11 minutes into the second half when he brought on new forward signing Vincent Janssen to support Kane.
Tottenham dominated proceedings late on and, if not for two world-class saves by Maarten Stekelenburg that denied Vincent Janssen and Lamela respectively, would have sealed the three points.
“The 33-year-old looked more than capable of taking over the gloves from Tim Howard and produced great saves from Vincent Janssen and Erik Lamela – the only reason Everton left Goodison with a point”, he added.
“There’s not a lot of change in the changing room and squad and I think that can help us”. “That makes the team stronger”.
Although Koeman’s charges ended the first half strongly and almost doubled their lead just before the break, but Vorm produced fine save to deny Gerard Deulofeu in a one on one situation. I like the players, but they need to run more. First, we’re assuming fitness for Jan Vertonghen. But in the second half there was a lot more energy and we always had different options and ways to play.
Tottenham and England strike Harry Kane admits the end to last season is tough to shake, but will provide motivation for his side.
Two players are doubtful for Saturday’s match – full-back Seamus Coleman (ankle) and striker Romelu Lukaku (heel). We had a very good season last season and people know we can do it now.
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Manager Mauricio Pochettino talks to his players during the Tottenham Hotspur Training Session on August 2, 2016 in Enfield, England.
