Koeman eases Lukaku concerns

Everton boss Ronald Koeman has confirmed striker Romelu Lukaku has a heel injury but stressed it is not a major worry.

Lukaku had to be removed from the action during Everton’s 1-0 pre-season loss to Spanish outfit Espanyol, but new manager Koeman expects the forward to be available for their curtain raiser against Spurs next weekend.

The Dutchman said the injury was “nothing serious” according to ESPN, adding: “Yes, it is his heel.

There was a lot of blood on his ankle and he had three stitches.” Lukaku has been heavily linked with a return to Chelsea this summer but it seems as if the Belgian remains a big part of Koeman’s plans going into the new campaign.

Koeman, who left Southampton for Goodison Park earlier in the summer, was also pleased to see centre-half Phil Jagielka back in action following a hamstring problem.

“It was very good to have Phil Jagielka back in the squad,” he said.

“If you miss two or three weeks of preseason then it’s difficult but experienced players know the game and he showed a good mentality and performance today.

“Everton are 11.00 to claim a top four finish in the Premier League this season and 16.00 in the handicap market with +20 points.

Koeman’s side are 2.88 to beat Tottenham in the opening round of fixtures, a win for Spurs at Goodison Park is 2.40 and the draw can be backed at 3.20.