Everton boss Ronald Koeman rubbishes 'crazy' title talk
Monday 19 September 2016 19:19, UK
Ronald Koeman says it is "crazy" to think Everton can challenge for this season's Premier league title.
Everton are unbeaten under their new manager and sit second in the Premier League table having dropped just two points in their opening five games.
But ahead of Tuesday's EFL Cup tie against Norwich Koeman rubbished his new club's chances of matching Leicester's shock success.
He said: "Normally, we can't win the title - I think what Leicester did last season was an exception.
"I don't think so. I am realistic. If I tell you we will fight for the title I think most people will say 'that man is crazy'. Even when I mention that, I'm not crazy?
"Why do we need to change our mind about our aspiration and ambition after 13 points from five games? The big teams have much more qualities and if they are not disappointed like last season it will be impossible."
Koeman will give a first Everton start to Enner Valencia against Norwich as in-form striker Romelu Lukaku misses out through injury.
Lukaku has six goals in his past three games for club and country, but a toe injury will interrupt that scoring streak.
And the Belgium international's starting spot will go to summer signing Valencia, whose involvement until now has been limited to 24 minutes in Sunday's win over Middlesbrough.
Koeman also reported that midfielder Darron Gibson is out for three weeks after a groin operation, while James McCarthy remains sidelined after similar surgery.
The Dutchman intends to pick a strong side on Tuesday in what he calls "an important competition".
