Ronald Koeman says Romelu Lukaku needs support to thrive at Everton
Thursday 15 September 2016 15:52, UK
Ronald Koeman says Romelu Lukaku is "one of the best" but needs more support to thrive on a regular basis for Everton.
The Belgium international had not scored a Premier League goal since March, before he sealed an 11-minute treble in Everton's 3-0 win at Sunderland on Monday.
And ahead of Saturday's Premier League fixture against Middlesbrough, Koeman has called on his team to replicate their second-half performance against Sunderland.
"The offensive side of the team on Monday was great, much better in the second half," Koeman said at Thursday's pre-match press conference.
"For the team performance, don't make an eight and next week a four. But of course it's football.
"One day, you play better than the other. But if we talk about Lukaku, he is 23 years old. He did not have the pre-season he needed to be 100 percent. Now he is 100 percent.
"It's always a boost. Strikers live for scoring. Lukaku is always a scoring player. But we need to support the boy to give him the chances to score."
Koeman also revealed Gareth Barry "will be selected" for Saturday's game, but he may have to wait to discuss a new deal, as it depends on the club's situation in a year's time.
"We will speak about that. If he is still the player we need, we will speak about next season," added Koeman.
"It's amazing, 600 games, 19 seasons in a row. He is still an important for us because he is a clever player.
"You have to minimise the training a little in the week."
