Lukaku credits Koeman with decision to stay at Everton

Everton forward Romelu Lukaku says manager Ronald Koeman played an influential role in his decision to stay with the club in the summer transfer window, despite fielding plenty of interest from other teams.

Speaking with Belgian assistant coach and Arsenal legend Thierry Henry for an interview with Sky Sports, Lukaku explained that Koeman's work ethic and management style struck a chord with his own goals and career ambitions.

"I had a moment of reflection - for a week in preseason - to see how the manager works and see what he sees in me as a player," Lukaku told Henry, according to Sky Sports. "I'm young and there are aspects of my game I need to improve. He worked with me on it from day one and I was convinced he was a man that can have a big influence on my future."

While Lukaku acknowledged that former manager Roberto Martinez was also a positive figure in his development, he explained the difference between the two came down to the amount of leniency shown during difficult periods.

"With Mr. Martinez I had a lot of freedom to express myself on the pitch," Lukaku said. "The second year he wanted me to play more as a target man and that's something that has never been in my game, because my pace and running in behind is my strongest point.

"But I learned it, and then the third year, for seven months I was unstoppable in the league, there was no way someone could hold me. But the last three months of the season, my level dipped and the team's level dipped and it was sad how it ended with the former manager.

"With Mr. Koeman it's a change, it's different. I know that if I don't do what he wants me to on the pitch, I can go on the bench straight away. He keeps me very sharp and focused in the training sessions and throughout the games, which is going to help me."