Romelu Lukaku says Everton boss Ronald Koeman has helped him develop as a player despite admitting he isn’t always easy to manage.

The 23-year-old Belgian international feels that Koeman has taken his game ‘to the next level’ during their season together at Goodison Park.

Lukaku has already netted 24 Premier League goals this season, his best ever tally and he was this week named Player of the Season and Players’ Player at the club’s annual awards.

Having turned down a new contract offer earlier in the season, Lukaku’s future on Merseyside has been the subject of intense speculation.

Former club Chelsea are rumoured to be interested if Diego Costa leaves Stamford Bridge, while Manchester United have also been touted as a potential destination for a player that has made no secret of his desire to play in the Champions League.

Everton fans will be hoping his apparent fondness for working with Koeman may be a positive in their bid to hold onto the talented striker. “I’m very happy.

I want to thank the manager for pushing me, even though sometimes I’m not always an easy guy. He’s taken me to the next level,” Lukaku said on collecting his awards.

“As a young guy, I just try to learn every day and give my best. Sometimes there are ups and downs but it’s always with the best intentions.

“I want to help my team-mates win and I have tried my best this season.” Lukaku has two years to run on his contract with Everton.

The Toffees are 1.44 to beat Watford on Friday night at home, with Lukaku 3.25 to score the first goal.