Romelu Lukaku: Everton wouldn’t let me go

The Belgian had made it clear during the summer that he intended to leave Everton for a club competing in the Champions League, and the likes of former club Chelsea, as well as a number of European teams, were reportedly interested.

However, the striker was unable to secure a move away from Merseyside and will now remain with Ronald Koeman’s side until at least January.

Speaking to Belgian daily Het Nieuwsblad, Lukaku opened up about how matters transpired from his perspective.

“It stings a little [not being in European competition], but I’m someone who believes that everything happens for a reason.

“Otherwise I would have gone to Juventus instead of staying at Everton. But I opted for Everton because it was too early for Italy and I have not done badly here.

“Now we have a new coach and it is completely different than with Mr [Roberto] Martinez, but I think we can make progress under Ronald Koeman. It may be the last step and then look further.

“I knew of the interest of a few clubs, it was quickly very clear that Everton would not let me go. It was important to me that I remained calm, and I did.

“I said to myself that I will do my best and who knows what will happen in the future.

“I tell [agent] Mino [Raiola] what I think about it [contract renewal] and eventually we have to make the decision that is best for me.

“For me football is not about money – I want to win prizes. But when I get into a situation where I can leave but my team will not let me, I’m not someone who misses training, gets fined and develops a bad reputation."