By support

15th Oct, 2016 | 7:16pm

Koeman makes bold claim about Stekelenburg display v Manchester City

By Dominic Toner

Everton manager Ronald Koeman believes that Maarten Stekelenburg may have played his “best ever game” against Manchester City.

The Dutch goalkeeper produced a fantastic display as the Toffees earned a valuable 1-1 draw at the Etihad.

The 34-year-old kept out a fluent City attacking side on several occasions and also saved two penalties in the match.

Stekelenburg saved a penalty from Kevin De Bruyne in the first-half and repeated his heroics against Sergio Aguero after the break.

Striker Romelu Lukaku put the Toffees in front with a sublime 64th minute goal at the Etihad, but Nolito scored an equalising header from close range.

Koeman has hailed the performance of his number one goalkeeper, who helped Everton pick up a point against the league leaders.

“The goalkeeper, Maarten Stekelenburg, maybe play his best game ever,” Koeman said, as quoted by the club’s official Twitter account.

Stekelenburg arrived at Goodison Park in the summer and was not expecting to be the first-choice goalkeeper, but Koeman failed to acquire anyone else in the transfer market.

He has grabbed his opportunity firmly and is keeping team-mate Joel Robles on the substitute’s bench.

The shot stopper has kept three clean sheets in all competitions and has impressed fans with his ability.

The experienced goalkeeper made a name for himself after graduating from the Ajax academy and making 280 appearances for the Dutch side.

He has also played at English clubs Fulham and Everton, but at 34 is continuing his impressive career under Koeman.

In other Everton team news, Koeman has praised Romelu Lukaku after his performance against Manchester City.