Football
PA Sport 7y

Everton can do better than seventh place in Prem - Ronald Koeman

Everton manager Ronald Koeman believes his side have what it takes to compete for a top-four spot in the Premier League.

After Liverpool's 1-1 draw at Manchester City, Everton are six points off the top four in the league table.

And the former Southampton coach said: "It always depends on yourself. We have made the first step.

"We know our schedule and we now have an opportunity to come close to the teams above us but we play Liverpool and Manchester United away.

"Normally in football we would keep seventh position in the table and I would be happy but we can do more.

"It is all about Liverpool away and Man United away but I am happy we have a chance to climb the table.''

The Dutchman was also pleased with the way Goodison reacted to Lukaku, singing his name before, during and after the game - following his outspoken comments in the week.

Despite the speculation the striker's time with the Toffees is limited after his rejection of the most lucrative contract in the club's history, Koeman has not yet given up hope of holding on to their record signing.

"I am happy for the fans who listened to me about his reception,'' he added.

"It was great and every Everton player needs support even in these situations.

"Everyone knows he is a professional and he will do everything he can until his contract ends and no one knows what will happen in the future.

"We like to keep our best players because we need them to make the best step but the final decision is normally by the player himself.''

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