McCarthy exit 'was speculation'

Everton manager Ronald Koeman says the club never had any intention of selling Ireland midfielder James McCarthy during the transfer window.

McCarthy was reportedly the subject of a £16m bid from Newcastle United in January, but Koeman says the 26-year-old was always part of his plans at Goodison Park and never for sale.

"That speculation is [just] speculation," the Dutchman said.

"From the beginning, he is an Everton player and I did not change my mind.

"The situation is not different than it was [before]. He was never on the list to leave Everton."

Koeman insists the Glasgow-born midfielder, who scored in Everton's 6-3 win over Bournemouth on Saturday, is a key player despite just seven Premier League starts this season following a hamstring injury.

"He had a difficult time and he's working to get that fitness that you need to play on a high level in the Premier League," added Koeman.

"He showed when his fitness was really good that he is an important player.

"Most of the time, he started the game and that's the best what you can show as a manager of the player when he starts."

In other Everton news, Koeman is hopeful Romelu Lukaku will extend his contract at Goodison Park.

The striker's agent, Mino Raiola, says the Belgium international is keen to sign a new deal despite attracting interest from some of Europe's top clubs with 16 goals in 23 Premier League appearances this season, including four against Bournemouth last weekend.

"I didn't speak to the board about Romelu. If his agent says he likes to stay and is close to signing a deal then that is perfect for Everton," Koeman said.

"Normally players, if they really see a future in a club, they see the team improving, the team is getting stronger every day, then that is always a plus for players to stay.

"At the moment, he is top scorer in the league and playing at a high level. He is so clinical and it would be difficult to find a replacement for him. I hope he will stay.

"First of all, it starts by yourself, it is to improve. He is really a world class finisher but in other detail, in other qualities, he can and must improve and he knows that's the most important thing."

Photo by Getty Images/ Clive Brunskill

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