Ronald Koeman identifies weaknesses in 19-year-old Everton star
By Will Butcher
Ronald Koeman believes Ademola Lookman still has plenty to learn despite handing him his first Everton start against Bournemouth on Saturday.
The 19-year-old started against Eddie Howe’s Cherries for the first time since his £11million move from League One outfit Charlton, as the Toffees won an enthralling match 6-3.
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Koeman outlined the areas of Lookman’s game that the attacker needs to improve but lauded his teenage star after making his first start.
“The young boy has a lot of qualities,” Koeman said. “He is clever. But in the first half he lost two actions that he took risks to play one against one in a part of the pitch that is not possible.
“I like that he’s clever, but he needs to adapt to the intensity of the game. He is not the most physical or strongest, and you need to play and move. He will be a great player.”
Lookman burst onto the Everton scene during the 4-0 win against Manchester City, by coming on as a substitute and rounding off the sparkling performance with a debut goal.
Lookman has since been handed two substitute appearances against Stoke and Crystal Palace before starting against Bournemouth.
Now, the England Under-20 international could start against Middlesbrough on Saturday, as Koeman looks to maintain his side’s run of form that has seen them lose just once in eight games.
A win for the Toffees against Aitor Karanka’s side could see them close the gap on the top six of the Premier League to just two points, if Manchester United lose to Watford.
In other Everton news, Jamie Redknapp has been blown away by this star attacker.
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