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Romelu Lukaku admits he could have left Everton, but thinks he can progress under Ronald Koeman

Everton's Romelu Lukaku (REUTERS)
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Lukaku was the subject of a lot of speculation during the summer.

Everton's Romelu Lukaku in action with Stoke City's Ryan Shawcross

Everton striker Romelu Lukaku has said he could have joined Juventus during the summer, but is confident that he will progress under the management of Ronald Koeman at Goodison Park this season.

Lukaku’s future was the subject of much speculation during the summer, with many suggesting the Belgian could be moving on, but he seemingly opted to remain on Merseyside despite a clear desire to be playing in European competition this season.

Everton's Romelu Lukaku in action

The Liverpool Echo have picked up on quotes he gave during the international break, where the forward says: “Yes, it stings a little, but I’m someone who believes that everything happens for a reason. Otherwise I was going to go to Juventus instead of staying at Everton.

“But I opted for Everton and I have not done badly here.

Everton manager Ronald Koeman

“Now we have a new coach and it is completely different than with with Mr. Martinez. But I think I can make progress under Ronald Koeman. Perhaps the last step and then look further.”

Lukaku’s stock has certainly risen during his time with Everton as he has developed into one of the most feared forwards in the Premier League, having scored 61 times from 130 games during his time with the Toffees so far.

The 23-year-old has time on his side to improve further and a change of manager can allow him to learn new things.

There is, however, a clear appetite on the part of the player to play regularly in European competition, meaning that a vast improvement will be needed on the part of the club in order to help fulfill the ambition of one of their better players. If there isn’t then there may be well be more speculation surrounding the player’s future pretty soon.

Everton's Romelu Lukaku arrives before the match