Spurs are perfect example for Toffees, says Koeman

Everton manager Ronald Koeman believes Tottenham have set the example which his own side must follow if they are to meet their ambitions.

The Dutchman is an admirer of Mauricio Pochettino and what he has accomplished in a relatively short time at White Hart Lane and wants the Toffees to follow suit.

But after a summer of heavy recruitment and promotion of a number of academy prospects he admits it will take time to reach their level.

But that does not mean he does not expect his side to be competitive when the two meet at Goodison Park today.

“In my opinion they are one of the strongest teams in the Premier League,” he said. “Maybe they haven’t had the start they expected (four points from three matches) but they are a really strong side and I like how they play football.

“It is an example of how we need to make the next step as Everton.

Wayne Rooney will start the game despite the furore of his drink-driving charge but Koeman is hoping another new addition, Gylfi Sigurdsson, can carry on from an impressive showing for Iceland in the international break, scoring twice against Ukraine.

“Gylfi showed his productivity again for his nation. He is that kind of player. He is a good player and I did not have any doubt about his qualities.”

Meanwhile, Tottenham striker Vincent Janssen has joined Fenerbahce on loan for the remainder of the season.

The Holland international struggled to make an impact after joining last summer from AZ Alkmaar, where he was the Eredivisie’s leading scorer the previous season with 27 goals.