Everton manager Ronald Koeman has told the Belgian media Romelu Lukaku is the best forward Belgium currently have in their set- up. The Everton forward will be expected to start the game when the Red Devils clash with the Netherlands tonight.
Speaking to HLN, Koeman was asked about the key players in Roberto Martinez’s squad, and he believes Lukaku is the player to lead the line for Belgium at this moment in time. The Dutchman thinks the youngster is now quite the complete forward because he can play with his back to goal, and can also get behind opposition defences.
“I think Romelu will show that he is the best striker… I think Lukaku is quite complete. He can hold a ball as a target man, and because he is tall and physically strong, you can play directly with the long ball,” said the Everton manager.
Koeman was also asked about the comparisons of Lukaku with his former Dutch teammate Patrick Kluivert. The Everton boss said he could see the similarities because of what they achieved as young players, and also sees no reason why Lukaku couldn’t replicate Kluivert and play for Barcelona.
“I think Kluivert was also this type of striker, he was quite young and had a fantastic career… eventually Kluivert played for Barcelona, which could happen with Lukaku,” said Koeman.
Lukaku will be hoping to take his recent form with Everton into the game against Danny Blind’s side tonight. The 23-year-old has in the past been criticised for his performances for his country, and especially by his former national coach Marc Wilmots.
