Revealed: Why Everton signed Enner

Speaking to the media ahead of Everton’s trip to Sunderland on Monday night, Everton manager Ronald Koeman has revealed why he signed Enner Valencia on loan.

Koeman also quashed suggestions that Valencia was a panic buy, saying “He was one of the options earlier on in the window.CHe can play as a nine or behind the striker and that is good for us. We need that versatility.

“He will bring that competition that all players need,” Koeman said. “He has pace, he’s physical, he can play in different positions across the front, and he can press.

“Of course we have Romelu as a No.9 and we have tried (Gerard) Deulofeu as a nine in pre-season. Valencia can play as a nine too. He gives the team more options to start, and that’s the competition that we need. It is a long season and a difficult season and I need competition.”