Former Saint turns sinner

EVERTON manager Ronald Koeman is hoping Manchester United beat his former club Southampton in the League Cup final – because victory for Jose Mourinho’s team would boost his own side’s chances of qualifying for the Europa League.

Koeman, who spent two seasons in charge of Southampton, also wants one of the league’s top-four finishers to win the FA Cup so that Everton make it to the Europa League qualifying rounds if they manage to end the season in seventh place.

‘It is true you need help from which team will win the League Cup or the FA Cup,’ the Dutchman said.

‘In that way we hope United will win and one of the biggest clubs wins the FA Cup, because then it’s possible seventh in the table can play a qualification for the Europa League.’

Koeman (left) believes Everton’s involvement in Europe next season will be crucial to his plans for strengthening the squad in the offseason.

‘Players like to be part of Europe and they like to be part of the Champions League,’ he added. ‘We would like to do it and be part of it because Europe is the next step.’