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Koeman: 'Crazy' to consider Everton a Premier League title contender

Reuters

Everton manager Ronald Koeman is too level-headed to even begin dreaming about the Premier League title.

The Toffees have jumped out of the blocks to start the new campaign, winning four of their first five matches for the first time since 1978.

Everton's strong run of form is rivalled only by Manchester City, which has claimed 15 points out of a possible 15 under Pep Guardiola.

But Koeman is not getting carried away. Everton's wins came against opposition it was expected to beat: West Brom, Stoke City, Sunderland, and Middlesbrough.

"I am realistic," he told reporters Monday. "If I tell you we will fight for the title then I think most of the people will say, 'That man is crazy.'

"Come on. Why do we need to change our mind about our aspirations and ambitions after 13 points from five games?

"No. The big teams have much more qualities. If they aren't disappointing like last year, it will be impossible."

The Dutchman alluded to the anomaly that led to Leicester City's remarkable title triumph in 2015-16, which coincided with down years at both Manchester clubs and Chelsea.

Repeating Leicester's feat is not on the agenda. Koeman is instead targetting European qualification for Everton, which has yet to even make the Champions League proper in its history.

"We know it's only the start of the season. It's a long way to go. We need to improve," he added. "We can improve if we want to fight for Europe."

Retaining the services of Romelu Lukaku - who drew reported interest from Juventus and former club Chelsea - has paid dividends. The Belgium international already boasts four goals - including a hat-trick performance against Sunderland - although he will not play a part in Tuesday's League Cup tie against Norwich City because of a toe injury.

Summer signing Idrissa Gueye has also energised the midfield, completing the highest number of tackles (31) in the Premier League thus far.

"In my opinion, in that position in the team he will become maybe the best in the Premier League," said Koeman.

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