Marco: We’re a big club

MARCO SILVA claimed it was not difficult to convince three Barcelona aces to join Everton, because they believe the Blues are a big club.

The Everton boss landed defenders Yerry Mina and Lucas Digne as well as securing a loan deal for midfielder Andre Gomes.

Everton also brought in Richarlison from Watford in a £40m move, Brazilian Bernard on a free and Chelsea centre-back Kurt Zouma on a season-long loan.

The Toffees left most of their business down to the final day but Silva was adamant the late work was not down to having to convince them to join Everton.

He said: “We signed players because they thought we are a big club as well.

“All those we signed showed me they really want to come. That is important for me and the club.”

Silva confirmed that the deadline-day signings will not be ready for the trip to Wolves today but England keeper Jordan Pickford could start.

Everton’s summer business means it is going to be more difficult for 20-year-old winger Ademola Lookman to get regular football.

Lookman wanted to leave for Red Bull Leipzig this summer after enjoying a loan spell with the Bundesliga club last season, but Everton blocked the switch.

Silva added: “I am here to do everything I can to make him happy again, to put him in the condition to fight.

“Then it is for him to keep his position in our starting line-up.”