Everton striker Romelu Lukaku discusses his future.
Everton’s Romelu Lukaku in action
Everton striker Romelu Lukaku did not land a big move this summer to a Champions League club, much to his disappointment.
The forward’s form at the end of last season and Euro 2016 did not justify a switch for the big asking price Everton were demanding, but he says there are no hard feelings.
Lukaku still has ambitions to leave Everton though, telling Belgian outlet Sportwereld that a lack of European football hurts, and that he hopes he is in the last phase of his time at the club.
Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku misses a chance to score
He also insisted he would not at any point go on strike in order to force a move.
Asked about signing a new contract, Lukaku said: “I tell Mino [Raiola, agent] how I think about it, and eventually we have to make a decision that is best for me.
“For me football is not about the money. I want to hold prices. But when I get into a situation where I can leave but my team will not let me go, then I’m not someone who goes absent from training, get fined and grows a negative reputation.
“I try to remain calm and treat my club with respect. Hopefully they can treat me also with respect and I can leave through the main gate.
“Yes, it stings a little [lack of European football], but I’m someone who believes that everything happens for a reason.”
Everton manager Ronald Koeman
He also added that he is hopeful he will become a better player under the tutelage of new Everton boss Ronald Koeman.
“Now we have a new coach and it is completely different from Mr. Martinez. But I think I can make progress under Ronald Koeman. Perhaps the last step and then look further.”
It is of course no secret that Lukaku has plenty of ambition and wants to play at the very highest level, and possibly the distraction of trying to earn a move contributed to the downturn in form last season.
His comments about trying to move away from the Toffees are fairly routine from when he is on international duty, and indicate reports he will sign a new contract [via The Mirror]
Yet it is time he knuckles down and starts producing for his club. He has started once this season in the league and made one appearance off the bench, although hasn’t scored in either game.
Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku shoots wide
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